Arsenal have signed French defender Elisa de Almeida from Paris Saint-Germain for a fee of €600,000. The 28-year-old centre-back has agreed a three-year contract with the club, as first reported by The Athletic on Wednesday.
Arsenal head into this move sitting second in the Premier League with six points from two wins, having scored four goals and conceded none. Their next test is a home fixture against Chelsea on September 6th, a match you can see on our fixtures page.
Why Arsenal targeted a new defender
Arsenal's need for defensive reinforcements was clear. The squad began the 2026-2027 season with only three fit centre-backs. Katie Reid is recovering from an anterior cruciate ligament injury and is not expected back before November, a full year after she was hurt. This shortage made cover in central defence a priority for head coach Renee Slegers. De Almeida's arrival provides immediate depth to the backline.
What Elisa de Almeida brings to the squad
Elisa de Almeida is an experienced international who joined PSG in 2021. She brings a record of competing at the highest level, having reached the Champions League semi-finals in the 2023-2024 season and the quarter-finals of both the 2023 World Cup and the 2025 European Championships with France. Slegers highlighted the player's composure, mobility and experience as key strengths. While primarily a centre-back, De Almeida can also provide cover at right-back, a role she performs for her national team.
How the defender feels about the move
The transfer holds personal significance for the new signing. "I grew up watching Arsenal and seeing French players wear this jersey, so I’m proud to take this step," De Almeida said. "I’m looking forward to playing in front of our supporters and experiencing the special atmosphere they have created." Her excitement about joining a club she followed as a young fan adds an extra layer to the deal.
Arsenal's summer transfer activity so far
De Almeida is the seventh new arrival for Arsenal's first day of pre-season. The club has been active in strengthening multiple areas. They signed full-back Ona Batlle from Barcelona and brought in midfielder Georgia Stanway from Bayern Munich. Another notable addition is 19-year-old winger Lisa Baum, who joined from RB Leipzig. This flurry of signings shows a clear intent to build a competitive squad. Fans can track the updated roster on our squad page.
The team's strong defensive start to the season, with a +4 goal difference, will be tested when Chelsea visit. Elisa de Almeida has signed a three-year deal with Arsenal.
