Spain defender Batlle close to agreeing Arsenal move

Spain defender Ona Batlle is close to agreeing a move to Arsenal as a free agent in the summer.

Batlle's deal at Barcelona expires at the end of the season, and BBC Sport reported in January she had held advanced discussions with Arsenal over a pre-contract agreement.

Arsenal are increasingly confident they are set for a successful summer, with deals for Batlle and other key targets to be completed early.

The 26-year-old Spaniard has been a priority target for the Gunners, with Republic of Ireland full-back Katie McCabe set to exit.

England midfielder Georgia Stanway, 27, is also likely to join Arsenal when her Bayern Munich contract expires at the end of the season.

Stanway, who helped England win back-to-back European Championships, moved to Bayern from Manchester City in 2022 and has won three Bundesliga titles.

There have also been reports, external that Switzerland midfielder Geraldine Reuteler is set to join Arsenal from Frankfurt, as well as potential further additions.

Batlle's arrival would be one of the biggest moves in recent years as Arsenal have revamped their approach to recruitment, targeting top players early.

Following the appointment of ex-England striker Jodie Taylor as Arsenal Women's first technical director in January, the club aim to plan ahead to the next three transfer windows and ensure a constant evolution.

Batlle spent three seasons at Manchester United between 2020 and 2023 and was part of the Spain squad that won the 2023 World Cup.

She also played a key role as Spain reached the Euro 2025 final - where they lost to England on penalties - and helped Barca claim the Women's Champions League in 2024.

Batlle is widely regarded as one of the best defenders in the world and it is understood she is keen for a return to the Women's Super League.

Earlier this week, Arsenal announced a two-year contract extension for striker Stina Blackstenius.