Arsenal sign Barcelona forward Caldentey

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Arsenal have signed Barcelona and World Cup-winning Spain forward Mariona Caldentey.

The 28-year-old, who joined Barcelona in 2014, has since won six Liga F titles, three Champions Leagues, and six Spanish Cups.

Caldentey has made 302 appearances for the Catalan club, scoring 114 goals, making her the fifth all-time top scorer for Barcelona.

She was also a key member of the Spain team that defeated England in the World Cup final in Australia last year, securing the nation’s first major women’s title.

“I think what Arsenal are doing as a club is amazing – on and off the pitch,” Caldentay said. “I love the way we want to play as a team and I think there’s a strong mentality building here.

“It’s been incredible to see what the club has done away from the pitch, with supporters following the team everywhere and lots of records being broken. I can’t wait to get started and help the team win trophies and entertain our supporters.”

Arsenal boss Jonas Eidevall said: “Mariona is a world-class forward and we are delighted to bring her to Arsenal.

“She’s a winner with proven experience of excelling on the biggest stage, which is exactly where we aim to be at this club.”

Caldentey has netted 26 goals in 72 appearances for Spain, contributing to their victory in the 2023-24 Nations League.

Arsenal announced in May that Netherlands striker Vivianne Miedema will depart the club after not being offered a new contract, with Manchester City expected to pursue her.

The Gunners have also been linked with Aston Villa goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar and England midfielder Fran Kirby.