Manchester United forward Alessia Russo on the verge of joining Arsenal

Alessia Russo is on the verge of joining Arsenal from Manchester United, according to Sky Sports.

Russo was the subject of a £450,000 bid from the Gunners in January but the approach was rejected by United at the time.

United announce Russo departure

A United statement read: “Manchester United can confirm that Alessia Russo will leave the football club on completion of her contract at the end of June.

“Everyone at the football club would like to thank Alessia for her service and wish her luck for the future.”

The England striker’s departure from the club she joined in 2020 will be a massive blow to the Old Trafford side, where she led the line so well.

Before joining United, the 24-year-old had spells with Chelsea, Brighton and North Carolina Tar Heels.

Russo has scored 26 goals in 59 appearances for United, helping the club to second place in the Women’s Super League and the FA Cup final last season.

No US move

Her former United manager, Casey Stoney, ruled out a move to the US on Thursday, with the San Diego Wave head coach saying: “Trust me, if Alessia Russo was coming to the NWSL (National Women’s Soccer League), I would be in the conversation.

“I have a very good relationship with Alessia,” she added. “If she was coming here we would be in the conversation… She is not coming here.”

On her social media accounts on Friday, she wrote: “It’s been the hardest decision I’ve ever had to make. @manutdwomen, thank you for everything.”