Arsenal close to Emily Fox transfer as USA international boosts WSL title bid

Noelle Maritz's exit has paved the way for a new right-back to arrive

Arsenal Women are close to wrapping up a deal for United States defender Emily Fox.

A new right-back was a priority for the Gunners going into the January transfer window and they have been in talks with Fox since Christmas.

The 25-year-old arrives with significant standing after impressing for club side North Carolina Courage and the USA.

Fox started every game for her country at last year’s World Cup and has earned 39 senior international caps so far.

Arsenal have already paved the way for her arrival, with defender Noelle Maritz joining Aston Villa last week.

The Women’s Super League (WSL) is currently on its winter break and Arsenal have been in Portugal for a training camp.

England captain Leah Williamson has been part of the squad and returned to team training.

Deal close: United States international Emily Fox will join Arsenal in the coming days
Getty Images

The defender has been out of action since April after injuring her knee, but is making good progress with her recovery.

Arsenal will not rush Williamson's return and the arrival of Fox will bolster their defensive options for the second half of the season.

The Gunners return to action on Sunday when they take on Watford in the fourth round of the FA Cup.

Arsenal are currently third in the WSL after 10 games and trail leaders Chelsea by three points.

The Blues are currently away at their own warm-weather training camp in Morocco and have been rocked by the news that Sam Kerr will miss the rest of the season due to a knee injury.

Chelsea are pondering signing a new striker this month after losing Kerr for the months ahead.

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