Manchester City want Arsenal’s record-breaking striker on a free transfer

Manchester City are reportedly chasing Women’s Super League record goalscorer Vivianne Miedema following her confirmed departure from Arsenal.

With Miedema preferring to stay in England, City aim to strengthen their attack in a bid to secure both domestic and European titles.

BOREHAMWOOD, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 16: Arsenal’s Beth Mead interacts with Arsenal’s Vivianne Miedema during the FA Women’s Super League match between Arsenal WFC and Brighton & Hove Albion WFC at Meadow Park on September 16, 2022 in Borehamwood, England. (Photo by Harriet Lander/Getty Images)

Manchester City are targeting Women’s Super League all-time top scorer Vivianne Miedema after Arsenal announced her departure at the end of the season.

Despite attracting interest from clubs abroad, Miedema, who is in a relationship with Arsenal winger Beth Mead, has expressed his desire to continue his career in England. This preference seemingly opened the door for Manchester City to secure the striker.

Arsenal’s decision not to offer Miedema a new contract was met with Mead’s apparent displeasure as The Times reported that he had liked a post criticizing Arsenal’s decision before later removing it.

DAGENHAM, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 04: Vivianne Miedema of Arsenal battles for possession with Honoka Hayashi of West Ham United during the Barclays Women’s Super League match between West Ham United and Arsenal FC at Chigwell Construction Stadium on February 04, 2024 in Dagenham, England . (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

Miedema, 27, is regarded as one of the world’s elite strikers, boasting 125 goals in 172 appearances for Arsenal since joining from Bayern Munich in 2017. Her potential arrival at City would undoubtedly bolster their attacking line-up, which already boasts the league’s leading goalscorer, Khadija. Shaw and England’s experienced winger Lauren Hemp.

BOREHAMWOOD, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 20: Arsenal’s Kim Little celebrates with teammates Vivianne Miedema and Lina Hurtig after scoring their team’s second goal from the penalty spot during the Champions League second qualifying round first leg UEFA Women’s Champions League between Arsenal and AFC Ajax at Meadow Park on September 20, 2022 in Borehamwood, England. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)

Despite her impressive record, Miedema faced setbacks due to an ACL injury suffered in December 2022. Although she returned to action in October, she struggled to replicate her previous goal-scoring form, netting just five times in 16 matches in the last match. two seasons. This season she has started just three league games and underwent minor knee surgery in March.

Miedema’s departure marks the end of an era for Arsenal. Sporting director Edu Gaspar acknowledged his immense contribution, saying: “We thank Viv for his huge contribution to the team’s success during his seven years with us.” Director of Women’s Football Clare Wheatley echoed that sentiment, emphasizing Miedema’s special place in the hearts of Arsenal supporters.

In his farewell message, Miedema expressed his gratitude for his time at Arsenal, saying: “The time I had at Arsenal will stay with me forever and I am grateful for all the special memories.” She reflected on her journey with the club, from early triumphs to overcoming challenges, and acknowledged the unwavering support from fans and team-mates.

Arsenal are believed to be interested in signing Mariona Caldentey from Barcelona, ​​who is also out of contract this summer.