Arsenal have confirmed the loan signing of England star Chloe Kelly from Manchester City. The 27-year- old forward, who previously played for the Gunners' academy and made 19 appearances for the first team, is back at the club after stints with Everton and City, where she lifted both the FA Cup and League Cup.

Despite her success, Kelly has struggled for game time this season, starting just once in the Women's Super League. In a heartfelt social media post on Wednesday night, Kelly acknowledged her contract situation and expressed a desire to find happiness again, stating: "ultimately I just want to be happy again."

While Manchester United were also in the frame, Kelly has opted for a return to Arsenal, aiming to rediscover her best form in London. Arsenal's head coach Renee Slegers praised the new signing on the official website, remarking: "Chloe is an exciting attacking player and will be a great addition to our squad as we approach the second half of the season."

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She added: "She’s direct and explosive, with huge natural talent and ability. We’re all looking forward to working with Chloe as an Arsenal player in the coming months."

In other transfer news, ahead of the 11pm deadline, the Gunners also announced the acquisition of US defender Jenna Nighswonger from Gotham FC. The 24-year-old left-back, who has earned 18 caps, joins as the first new face since Slegers took over as permanent head coach on Friday, January 17.

Upon joining, Nighswonger expressed her happiness in an Arsenal statement, "I’m so happy to be here. I’ve always wanted to play in England and joining such an historic football club is a dream come true.

"I want to win trophies with this club and help the team in any way possible. It’s an incredible feeling to be able to call myself an Arsenal player and I can’t wait to get started."

Slegers welcomed Nighswonger to the squad, stating: "Jenna has had a great trajectory in the game and we’re delighted to bring her to Arsenal.

"Despite being only 24, she plays with great maturity and presence and knows what it takes to compete to win on the biggest stages at both domestic and national team level.

"Jenna is an important addition to our squad and I’m looking forward to getting started together."

The defender represented the United States in the Concacaf Gold Cup 2024 and the Paris Olympics. She was the National Women’s Soccer League Champion and Rookie of the Year in 2023.