Man Utd complete signing of World Cup 2023 Golden Boot winner as Wales international departs

Manchester United have completed the signing of Japan international midfielder Hinata Miyazawa from Mynavi Sendai.

Miyazawa, 23, joins the club on a permanent deal following an outstanding World Cup campaign in Australia and New Zealand that saw her score five times to win the Golden Boot award at the tournament.

“I am truly very happy to be part of this wonderful family and this great team. I am really looking forward to getting started and hope my style of play will excite our fans" said the midfielder.

The Japan star was believed to be close to a move to Liverpool earlier in the window but saw it hijacked by the Red Devils who swooped in late to seal the deal.

ManchesterWorld understands the lure of UEFA Champions League football helped secure the deal for the 23-year-old, with the club turned to the Japan star following weeks of frustration in the pursuit of North Carolina Courage star Kerolin. It is understood the club could return for the Brazilian in the January transfer window though.

On the signing of Miyazawa, head coach Skinner commented: “Hinata joins our United family having proven her qualities at the highest level.

"As her Golden Boot win at this summer’s Women’s World Cup has shown, she will excite our fantastic fans with her direct style of play and her ability to find the most dangerous spaces. We cannot wait to see her develop even further within our playing squad.”

Earlier in the day, the club confirmed the departure of Carrie Jones with the Welsh international completing a permanent move to newly promoted WSL side Bristol City. Canadian international Adriana Leon is also expected to depart the club in the coming days.