Smilla Holmberg, age 19 and currently a right-back for Hammarby IF in Swedish Damallsvenskan, is reportedly very close to a move to Arsenal, expected to be finalised during the January transfer window.
- According to Swedish outlet Sportbladet, only “a few small details” remain before the deal is confirmed.
- Holmberg has had a breakout season in the Damallsvenskan, has already made seven senior appearances for the Sweden women’s national football team (scoring once - on the Euro against Germany), and is regarded as one of Sweden’s top emerging talents.
- She is under contract with Hammarby until 2026 but has been on Arsenal’s radar, with the club reportedly having tried to secure her earlier in the year.
- The move underscores Arsenal’s ambition to strengthen their squad with young, high-potential players and suggests a plan for Holmberg to integrate into the team in the second half of the season.
- Holmberg is one of the big young talents. She was recently selected as the player of the match against Spain in the Nations League semifinals.
