Smilla Holmberg Joins Arsenal On Long-term Contract To Bolster Defence

Arsenal have strengthened the back line by signing Sweden defender Smilla Holmberg on a long-term contract from Hammarby. The 19-year-old right-back becomes Arsenal's first arrival of the January transfer window, although the club have not revealed the exact duration of the agreement.

The Gunners are currently third in the Women's Super League table and aim to stay in the title race. Arsenal return to domestic duty on Saturday, facing fourth-place Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium in a key league fixture.

Holmberg comes through Hammarby's academy system and progresses into the senior squad. The defender makes 96 first-team appearances, moving up the ranks to become a regular starter. Holmberg helps Hammarby secure a league and cup double

in 2023, then wins the Damallsvenskan again in 2025.

Operating mainly from right-back, Holmberg scores 10 goals for Hammarby, showing strong attacking contributions from defence. The defender also builds international experience, collecting nine caps for Sweden and reaching the Euro 2025 quarter-finals, which adds tournament pedigree to Arsenal's defensive options.

The newest member of the Arsenal family pic.twitter.com/41ey8TIVipArsenal Women (@ArsenalWFC) January 5, 2026

"It's always been my dream to play for Arsenal, said Holmberg. This is a very special moment for me and my family. It's also about joining a club with the highest standards and a strong winning culture. My ambitions align with the club's, and I want to help win silverware here. "

Holmberg's arrival gives Arsenal another young international defender with experience of winning major honours. The transfer underlines the club's focus on long-term planning as Arsenal chase trophies in the Women's Super League and domestic cups during the second half of the 2025-26 season.