Arsenal sign Swedish forward Rosa Kafaji in major transfer coup after interest from Chelsea and Barcelona

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Evening Standard

·13 August 2024

Arsenal sign Swedish forward Rosa Kafaji in major transfer coup after interest from Chelsea and Barcelona

Kafaji shone in Hacken’s strong Champions League run last season

The 21-year-old has been linked with Barcelona, Chelsea and Lyon this summer after starring in Swedish club Hacken’s run to the Champions League quarter-finals last season.

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Kafaji scored four goals during that run and Arsenal have now swooped to sign her on a long-term contract after agreeing a fee with Hacken.

“It feels amazing to join this club - I’m so happy to be here,” said Kafaji. “I had a very good feeling after speaking to Jonas [Eidevall] and Clare [Wheatley] and it just feels right to be at Arsenal.

“I’m hungry to keep growing and I know this is the right place for me to do that and compete for the biggest trophies. I can't wait to get started and walk out at Emirates Stadium in front of all our supporters.”

Kafaji predominantly plays as a No10 and will bolster Arsenal’s attack for the new season as they bid to win the Women’s Super League for the first time since the 2018-19 season.

She made her debut for her hometown club, AIK Football, when she was just 15 before joining Hacken in January 2022.

Kafaji was Hacken’s top scorer last season and has made nine appearances for Sweden after making her debut in October.

“I’m delighted we’ve been able to bring Rosa to the club,” said Arsenal boss Jonas Eidevall.

“She’s one of the most exciting young talents in the world and I’ve been a keen admirer of her game for a number of years.

“She plays with a fearlessness beyond her age and I know she has the hunger and mentality it takes to realise her potential here with Arsenal.”