Arsenal is emerging as a leading contender to sign midfielder Georgia Stanway following her confirmation that she will leave Bayern Munich when her contract expires at the end of the season. As Stanway enters the final six months of her deal, she is eligible to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs starting January 1, 2024. The north London club has expressed significant interest, placing them in a favorable position to secure her services.
Stanway, who has spent the past four seasons in Munich after transferring from Manchester City, has made a strong impression during her time at Bayern. In 94 appearances, she has helped the team secure three Bundesliga titles. Currently, Bayern sits six points clear at the top of the table and remains unbeaten after 14 matches this campaign.
Arsenal’s Midfield Needs
From Arsenal’s perspective, the addition of the 27-year-old could bring essential physicality and resilience to their midfield, especially following the departure of Lia Walti to Juventus last summer. The team has been seeking a more balanced midfield, and Stanway’s ability to perform in a box-to-box role makes her an appealing candidate. She is adept at regaining possession, maintaining ball control under pressure, and initiating attacks, while also exhibiting a defensive mindset when necessary.
Should Stanway join Arsenal, it would mark her return to the Women’s Super League (WSL) after seven years. The club is known for its Lioness connections, and her arrival would reunite her with fellow England internationals, including Leah Williamson, Chloe Kelly, Beth Mead, and others.
Recent Challenges and Future Prospects
Last January, Stanway faced a significant setback when she ruptured her lateral collateral ligament, which sidelined her for much of the domestic season. She underwent between 70 to 80 intensive rehabilitation sessions, describing the experience as “very, very tough.” Despite the challenges, she returned to form in time to start every match for England at the 2025 European Championship, contributing to the team’s success in winning the tournament for the second consecutive time.
Currently, Arsenal is positioned third in the WSL table, trailing behind leaders Manchester City by eight points. The club recently welcomed defender Smilla Holmberg from Swedish side Hammarby IF in January. As the summer transfer window approaches, significant changes are anticipated within the squad, particularly as several players aged 30 and above, including captain Kim Little and Leah Williamson, face contract decisions.
Discussions regarding contract renewals for key players like Little and Williamson are reportedly progressing well. Meanwhile, Mariona Caldentey and Kyra Cooney-Cross have had their options activated, ensuring their presence at the club until 2027. Furthermore, Arsenal recently announced that head coach Renee Slegers has extended her contract until 2029, alongside the appointment of former England international Jodie Taylor as the new technical director.
As the situation develops, Stanway’s potential move to Arsenal could significantly impact both her career and the club’s performance in the upcoming season.
