11 June 2023 , 11:18
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The Women’s Super League transfer window will open at the end of this month and Manchester United could be in for a big summer as they gear up for their first season in the Champions League.
Manager Marc Skinner could add more talented youngsters to his squad following the last month's acquisition of Aston Villa prospect and England U19 international Evie Rabjohn. However, question marks remain over the futures of some big names already at the club with a handful of contracts set to expire.
With a matter of weeks until the window opens, United fans will be keen to see Skinner boost his squad on the back of a positive campaign, so here is a round-up of the latest transfer news and rumours.
Arsenal ‘meet’ Russo’s agent
Plenty of big names in the women’s game could be on the move this summer, but this may be the most high profile as WSL rivals Arsenal appear to still hold a strong interest in United forward Alessia Russo. The England star was the subject of two bids from the Gunners in January worth more than £400,000, despite only having six months left on her deal.
With no breakthrough on an extension with United, there is a growing concern among the Reds’ support that Russo may be playing elsewhere next term. The latest update from the Manchester Evening News suggests her agent has met with Arsenal as the North London club consider their own forward options.
Earps reacts to FIFA Best nomination and on season so far with Man Utd
However, Jonas Eidevall may not have a free run at Russo if she’s to become a free agent this summer. ESPN reported back in February that the likes of Chelsea and French giants Lyon could also compete for her signature.
Alessia Russo of Manchester United celebrates after scoring her team's third goal during the FA Women's Super League match against Arsenal in November (Photo by Harriet Lander/Getty Images)United ‘in contact’ with PSV youngster
Dutch forward Esmee Brugts is a target for the Manchester club, if recent reports are anything to go by. 90min claimed last month that United have made contact with the player ahead of a potential move, with her contract at PSV Vrouwen set to expire this summer.
However, the article goes on to say a decision has not yet been made and several other clubs are also interested in acquiring the 19-year-old. Local rivals Manchester City have also been credited with interest, but the fact United have Champions League football next season could work in their favour.
Brugts may be one to keep an eye on this summer at the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand as she’s been named in Andries Jonker’s provisional squad for the tournament.
United ‘advance’ Emma Watson discussions
One potential transfer that appears to be much further along is the Red Devils’ move for Rangers prospect Emma Watson. A report from 90min in April claimed the Manchester club were ‘on course’ to sign the Scotland international.
However, a recent update from the BBC ’s Emma Sanders suggests talks have ‘advanced rapidly’ between the club and the player in recent weeks.
Earps eyed by ‘several clubs’
United could face a battle to keep goalkeeper Mary Earps this summer, according to the BBC. The club have exercised the option to extend her contract by another year, but may not be able to keep ahold of the 30-year-old with ‘several clubs’ said to be interested in signing her this window.
The report goes on to suggest United hold interest in Bayern Munich goalkeeper Janina Leitzig, although Leicester City are hopeful of signing the 24-year-old after a successful loan spell in the second half of last season.