Selina Cerci Joins Arsenal on Free Transfer

The 26‑year‑old forward has completed her move to Arsenal after a free‑transfer deal with Bundesliga club TSG 1899 Hoffenheim. Cerci, a long‑time supporter of the North London side, will wear the No 29 shirt and become one of Renée Slegers’ options across the front line. Her arrival adds both goalscoring firepower and tactical flexibility to a squad that finished the previous season looking for more variety in attack.

Photo by Mateo Villalba Sanchez/Getty Images

At Hoffenheim, Cerci netted 34 goals in 47 appearances, showcasing her ability to operate in multiple attacking roles. Her final two seasons were especially productive, with 16 goals recorded in each campaign and nine assists logged last term. The forward’s track record of consistent scoring makes her a reliable addition for a side looking to tighten its attack.

Photo by Christian Kaspar‑Bartke/Getty Images

Internationally, Cerci has netted five times in 20 caps for Germany, adding a senior‑level pedigree to her résumé. She described the move as a “big honour” and expressed excitement about competing among top talent in the English league. “I’m looking forward to getting stuck in and walking out at Emirates Stadium in front of all our supporters,” she said.

Why Cerci’s Signing Matters

Manager Renée Slegers praised the new recruit as a player who “brings good presence, physicality and forward intent.” The coach highlighted Cerci’s strong work ethic as a key factor in the decision. Adding a versatile goal scorer like Cerci reduces the need to rely heavily on a single striker, making the lineup more adaptable to different opponents.

What Club Officials Said

Director of Women’s Football Clare Wheatley called Cerci “an instinctive goalscorer with a proven record in the Bundesliga.” Wheatley added that the player is well‑placed to transition to English football and welcomed her family to the club. Slegers echoed the enthusiasm, noting the “impressive goalscoring numbers” as a catalyst for the signing.

Arsenal complete forward signing after 34‑goal Hoffenheim run 5