Arsenal in talks to sign Barcelona full-back Ona Batlle amid Barca financial crisis

Arsenal are reportedly in talks to sign Barcelona full-back Ona Batlle in the summer when her contract expires, according to The Athletic. The Gunners have several options at full-back — including Smilla Holmberg, Taylor Hinds, Katie McCabe and Emily Fox — but appear to have their sights set on the 26-year-old, who can play on either side of defence and has made 19 appearances in all competitions this season.

Goal’s report says Barcelona, due to financial constraints, may risk losing Batlle and team-mate Alexia Putellas, who are both out of contract at the end of the season and who the club reportedly cannot afford to renew. Batlle began her career at Barcelona before spells at Madrid CFF (2017), Levante (2018) and Manchester United, returning to Barca in 2023.

Since rejoining she has helped the club win Liga F twice, the Champions League once and two Copa de la Reinas, and in 2023 said she had always had Barca "in my heart." Arsenal have also been planning for the long term: manager Slegers signed a contract until 2029 in January after becoming interim coach in October 2024 and taking the role full-time in 2025, a move Goal says could help attract players like Batlle.

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