Arsenal Women linked with Australia striker Caitlin Foord

Arsenal Women have been linked with a move for Australian forward Caitlin Foord. Foord, who turned 25 in November, was today traded by her NWSL team, the Portland Thorns, to Orlando Pride, in a larger move. The release from both teams, however, stated that Foord’s “rights” were traded, leaving an opening (in the NWSL, rights to international players are held by teams) with some reports that Foord would head to Europe, and specifically the FA WSL.

Later in the day, The Athletic reported the interest from Arsenal, confirming speculation and what had been heard earlier in the day. Speaking to The Athletic, Pride GM Erik Ustruck said, “I think we’ll be in the conversation stages for the foreseeable future. She’s got a pretty nice offer from overseas [Arsenal].”

Foord is currently playing in Australia, for Sydney FC. The W-League ends in March, and it is unclear if Foord would join Arsenal before hand. Foord must be registered by the middle of March to play in the Champions League, and the transfer window closes in the WSL at the end of January. It is unclear whether Arsenal can announce Foord’s signing and loan her back to Sydney. Australian newspaper The Herald Sun reports that there’s an outside chance that Foord could join Arsenal before their clash with 3rd placed Chelsea.

Foord is a versatile player, who can play as a striker, wide player, second striker, or full back. She’s had a lot of international experience, having played in three World Cups for the Matildas.