ARSENAL SIGN SPAIN FULL-BACK ONA BATLLE FROM BARCELONA

Arsenal have confirmed the signing of Ona Batlle from Barcelona on a free transfer. The 27-year-old Spain international is Arsenal's fourth signing of the transfer window, following Georgia Stanway, Selina Cerci and Geraldine Reuteler, all of whom arrived from Bundesliga clubs. Barcelona announced Batlle's departure at the end of May upon the expiry of her contract. She is one of four members of the Spain squad to leave the Champions League winners on free transfers this summer.

Batlle spent three years at Barcelona, making 114 appearances and scoring 14 times. She won three league titles, three Spanish Cups, three Spanish Super Cups and two Champions Leagues during her second spell with the club, having previously played for Manchester United. The full-back, who can play on either flank, was part of Spain's starting eleven in their 4-0 victory over England in Mallorca in June. She won the World Cup with Spain in 2023 and played in the 2025 European Championship final against England.

Arsenal head coach Renée Slegers said Batlle was "a hugely experienced full-back with strong attacking intent and great physical attributes" and described her as "a winner". Batlle told Arsenal's media channels she was "very happy and excited" to join and stated her intention to win trophies with the club. Three of Batlle's Barcelona teammates are also moving this summer: Alexia Putellas has joined London City Lionesses, whilst Mapi León is expected to do likewise. Salma Paralluelo's next destination remains unconfirmed.