Arsenal complete permanent signing of former Manchester City ace Kelly

WSL Full-Time were informed of the news via an official club press release from The Gunners this morning.

The 27-year-old re-joins Arsenal off the back of a successful loan spell with the club in the second half of last season. Kelly made 13 appearances for the North Londoners in which she scored two goals. The player was a member of the side which won the UEFA Women’s Champions League in May.

Kelly joins Arsenal for the third time in her career. The player initially came through the club’s academy system before spending three years in the senior team. Between 2018 and 2025, Kelly played her football in the North West in spells with Everton and Manchester City before returning to Arsenal on loan in January.

With Kelly out of contract at Manchester City this summer, the player was always likely to re-join Arsenal permanently and that deal has now been finalised.

After re-joining The Gunners, Kelly said “Putting pen to paper on a permanent contract at Arsenal is a standout moment for me. Learning from an incredible manager and continuing to build relationships with an excellent team is a journey I’m looking forward to continuing.

“I’m excited for more silverware at this special club and to bring more trophies back to North London to celebrate with our supporters. I’ve always said that Arsenal supporters are the best and to have them on my side, singing my name, means so much to me.”

Kelly is Arsenal’s first signing of the summer transfer window.

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