Man Utd striker set to make shock Arsenal move

Russo is available on a free transfer in the coming weeks with her Manchester United contract expiring and one former Arsenal player has confirmed the deal for her to move to the Gunners is complete.

The striker was subject of a £500,000 bid from the North London club in January but saw the offer rejected by the Red Devils as the club went onto finish second and claim their best ever finish in the WSL. The Lionesses striker was then subsequently named the clubs’ player of the year on Monday.

However, according to former Arsenal goalkeeper Emma Byrne, Russo will be swapping the red of United for that of the Gunners in the coming weeks.

Byrne told the COYGIG podcast: “Alessia’s going to be a great addition because she’s definitely going to Arsenal. I think she’s going to be a great addition, not amazing, she’s not going to change everything for Arsenal but I think she’s going to be very, very good.”

There had been reported interest from French giants Lyon and the National Women’s Soccer League in America, though there was confidence in some quarters that Russo was close to agreeing a new deal. If the Maidstone born forward is to leave, it would be a significant blow to Marc Skinner’s side with defender Ona Batlle also expected to be confirmed as a Barcelona player in the coming weeks, as per Maria Tikas.

Previously Ella Toone, best friend and United team mate, had been asked about the contract situation of Russo while on England duty and said: “We love playing together, we love being around each other, we love each others company - that will never change no matter where Alessia is.

"As a friend, I'll always be proud of what she does and what she goes on to achieve. I love playing with her and now we're at England camp and spending everyday together, playing football together and that is the main thing. It is just about enjoying now together and whatever happens, happens.”

Russo is expected to be named in Sarina Wiegman’s Lionesses squad for the World Cup later this afternoon.