Arsenal close in on Alessia Russo after Man Utd departure confirmed
By Tom Gott, Emily Keogh
Arsenal are close to securing the signature of England striker Alessia Russo on a free transfer after her departure from Manchester United, 90min understands.
United turned down two world-record bids from Arsenal to sign Russo in the January transfer window but the Red Devils' efforts to try and tie her down to a new contract ultimately proved futile as her exit from the club was confirmed on Friday.
"Manchester United can confirm that Alessia Russo will leave the football club on completion of her contract at the end of June," a statement read.
"The England international joined United in the summer of 2020 and made her competitive debut in our 5-2 Women's Super League win at Birmingham City in September of that same season. Alessia scored her first goal in our 3-0 league win over Brighton and Hove Albion at Leigh Sports Village in October 2020.
"Alessia went on to make 59 appearances in all competitions as a Red, scoring 26 goals in the process. Her time at the club culminated in a record-breaking 2022/23 season for United Women, with the team finishing second in the WSL, securing Champions League qualification for the first time, as well as making it to our maiden Women's FA Cup Final."
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Sources have now confirmed to 90min that Arsenal, whose interest in Russo dates back to 2020, are closing in on the striker's signature.
The Gunners still have work to do to finalise a deal, however, and there is still interest in Russo's services from Lyon and around the NWSL.
San Diego Wave head coach Casey Stoney, Russo's former manager at United, recently insisted that the 24-year-old will not be making the move to America.
"Trust me, if Alessia Russo was coming to the NWSL, I would be in the conversation." Stoney told reporters. "I have a very good relationship with Alessia. If she was coming here we would be in the conversation… She is not coming here."