The January transfer window may be short but it never fails to surprise us. And who thought that all the drama would surround the women’s game? Well, it looks like the Women’s Super League isn’t done luring NWSL stars. Just days after Chelsea’s historic deal to sign Naomi Girma, it looks like Jenna Nighswonger is set to become the latest USWNT star to make her alleged WSL switch.

It must be difficult for ardent NWSL fans to see these remarkable talents being hijacked by rival leagues. But that’s just how things work. As for this latest rumor surrounding Nighswonger, this report comes from Meg Linehan of the Athletic. It is being said that the NJ/NY Gotham FC left-back is set to join Arsenal for a transfer fee of £80,000 or $100,000.

Both parties have reportedly agreed with the terms and it’s just a matter of time before this transfer is finalized. Of course, a transfer fee has a role to play considering that the 24-year-old has a contract with Gotham until 2025. However, it’s clear that Nighswonger doesn’t fancy fulfilling her deal with the New York metropolitan-based team and is rather keen to take up a new challenge.

It was just days ago that Chelsea completed the iconic signature of center-back Naomi Girma. The Blues decided to break the bank for the former San Diego Wave star, paying a whopping $1 million for her transfer. Should Nighswonger complete her Arsenal move, then she will apparently become the first to follow in the footsteps of Girma to the WSL.

The left-back shouldn’t feel homesick at Gunners; Jenna will get to reunite with fellow USWNT teammate Emily Fox, who moved to the North London side last year. Both will be facing Girma as rivals, alongside Mia Fishel as well as Catarina Macario, who has been a part of the Blues since 2023.

Nevertheless, Nighswonger is certainly London-bound and will officially get to don the red and white jersey in the coming days. But how exactly does this move prove favorable for both the player and the team?

Jenna Nighswonger will provide Arsenal with similar defensive depth as Naomi Girma does for Chelsea

Ardent fans may question the addition of Jenna Nighswonger, considering that Arsenal is doing just fine with Katie McCabe. The Irish defender has started in the last 28 matches at left-back position. Simultaneously, now-permanent head coach Renee Slegers has been utilizing Steph Catley as a center-back. And then, the arrival of Nighswonger surely adds a much-needed valuable depth in the left-back position.

That’s because it will potentially allow McCabe to move higher up the pitch and strengthen Arsenal’s wide attacking options. Even Jenna can also play further forward as one doesn’t need to underline her attacking prowess. Not to mention that Nighswonger’s arrival is insurance for all the possible departures that may take place in the upcoming summer.

Notably, Nighswonger comes to North London with significant experience on her resume. The Gotham star was a part of Emma Hayes’ 2024 Paris Olympic roster despite being the least capped player on the 18-player team. On the domestic front, Jenna earned her 2023 Rookie of the Year honors after helping Gotham win the 2023 NWSL Championship.

Unfortunately, the Huntington Beach, California native saw her playing time at Gotham decrease in the latter part of the 2024 season, following the arrival of Jess Carter and the increased minutes for Mandy Freeman. No wonder London is calling for her services. Either way, it remains to be seen how this move unfolds for Jenna Nighswonger.