Manchester United announce three deadline-day signings as Marc Skinner pushes for WSL title

Manchester United Women have announced the signing of three players on transfer deadline day.

While Premier League clubs have until Monday to confirm arrivals and outgoings, the women’s window is now concluded ahead of this weekend’s round of Women’s FA Cup fixtures.

On the final day, United added 33-year-old defender Diane Caldwell to their ranks, with Millie Turner absent due to an issue with the artery in her neck.

Jade Moore was also brought in from Atletico Madrid to help bolster United’s ranks, as was Danish forward Signe Bruun.

What have the players said?

Diane Caldwell: “Today is one of the most special moments in my life so far. As a lifelong United fan, it’s a dream to sign for the club and it’s a big moment for me and my family. I’m so grateful to be here and will wear the badge with so much pride. The team are in great form, playing attractive football, and Marc is doing a fantastic job; I just can’t wait to meet everyone and get straight down to business on the pitch.”

Jade Moore: “I’m delighted to be here at a club like Manchester United; it’s a proud moment after a difficult period for me. It’s great to be back in this league too, I have a lot of experience in the WSL, having played in it for around a decade, and I think I can bring some of that to this team. I’m also looking forward to working under Marc again and getting to know my new teammates, the group here is thriving and I’m excited to be a part of it. For me, this was the right move in my career at this time and I’m going to work as hard as possible to get fit and be in contention.”

Signe Brunn: “It’s amazing to be here, I’m really happy to be joining Manchester United. It is a big club with huge history, I have followed the women’s project for a while and have seen the progression of the team, and I think this move was a perfect match for me. I want to be able to help the team as much as possible during my time here, hopefully with a lot of goals but also a lot of hard work too. I can’t wait to get started on the training pitch with the players and staff ahead of a busy period of games.”

United’s title push

The Red Devils have an outside chance of securing a first WSL this season, with Marc Skinner’s side five points off leaders Arsenal.

However, United face the London side on Saturday 5 February, where a win could bring them within two points of top spot.

A place in the Champions League is also up for grabs, with United, who were reformed in 2018, having never played in Europe’s top competition. Currently they’re in third place, with Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City hunting that final Champions League position.

United are next in action this weekend when they face Bridgwater United in the FA Cup, before travelling to Chelsea on Wednesday for the semi-final of the League Cup.