Alessia Russo completes Arsenal move 'to win trophies'

England striker Alessia Russo is aiming for silverware after joining Arsenal on a free transfer.

As her contract with Women's Super League rivals Manchester United expired, the Gunners swooped in to land the 24-year-old forward.

Russo scored 10 goals in the WSL last season as United finished second behind champions Chelsea.

She emerged as a transfer target for Arsenal in January, but a world-record bid was dodged by the Red Devils as they pushed to claim the title.

Russo has not signed a new contract and was free to leave Manchester for north London, where she is keen to add domestic medals to the Women's Euro success she won with the Lionesses in the summer last.

"I'm really delighted to be here and can't wait to get started," Russo said after joining Arsenal.

"I want to win trophies - like everyone else at this club. I can't wait to get stuck in and grow as a player; it's a new challenge and a new environment."

"I think the growth in women's football has been incredible, but especially at a club like Arsenal.

"The sellout against Wolfsburg at the Emirates Stadium last season was fantastic and I'm really delighted to be a part of this club."

Russo, who is part of the England squad heading to the World Cup later this summer, has scored 11 goals in 21 senior appearances for his country.

"Alessia is one of the best strikers in the world and has significant potential to continue to grow and improve," said Arsenal head coach Jonas Eidevall.

"She has a proven track record in scoring in the WSL and internationally and we believe she will be a quality addition to our forward line, so we are all delighted to have brought her to the club ."< /p>

Russo becomes Arsenal's third signing this summer following the acquisitions of defender Amanda Ilestedt and striker Cloe Lacasse from Paris Saint-Germain and Benfica respectively.