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Arsenal and Gotham FC Agree to $100,000 Transfer of USWNT Defender Jenna Nighswonger.
Arsenal Women have reached an agreement with Gotham FC to transfer US Women’s National Team (USWNT) defender Jenna Nighswonger for a fee of $100,000, according The Athletic. This move comes as Arsenal looks to bolster their defensive lineup ahead of the competitive Women’s Super League season.
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Nighswonger, who was selected fourth overall by Gotham FC in the 2023 NWSL Draft, has quickly established herself as a key player. She won the NWSL Rookie of the Year honors in her debut season and played a crucial role in Gotham FC’s NWSL title win. Over the past season, she made 16 appearances for the USWNT, scoring two goals and contributing to their victories in the Paris Olympics, Concacaf W Gold Cup, and SheBelieves Cup.
The transfer fee of $100,000 is a fraction of the record $1.1 million fee paid by Chelsea for fellow USWNT defender Naomi Girma. Despite the lower fee, Arsenal sees Nighswonger as a valuable addition to their squad, especially with left-back Katie McCabe serving a two-match ban. Nighswonger’s versatility and defensive skills make her a suitable replacement, allowing McCabe to play higher up the field and potentially unlock additional offensive capabilities for Arsenal.
Gotham FC has been active in replenishing their roster with new talent, but the departure of Nighswonger is part of a broader trend of American players seeking opportunities abroad. For Arsenal, this acquisition is a strategic move to address specific needs within the squad and maintain their competitiveness in the WSL.
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