Newcastle United Women have signed midfielder Ashanti Akpan from Chelsea for an undisclosed fee, following her loan spell at Southampton.
The England Under-23 international had been with the Blues for 12 years, starting at the age of seven, and spent last season on loan to Birmingham City.
Akpan told newcastleunited.com: “I’m happy to be joining and I can’t wait to get started. I want to help this team to get promoted into the WSL.
“I’ve gained experience in this league, and I am excited to bring everything I’ve learnt into Newcastle now.”
Manager Tanya Oxtoby said: “Ashanti is a high-potential player who has gained good experience at this level in the last couple of seasons, and has international experience under her belt.
“She breaks up play well in the midfield, while also helping the team build the game through the thirds. Ashanti is a great character and will add to our culture, so we are really pleased to add her to our squad.”
Enjoying our women’s football news?
Take a look inside the latest issue of Her Goal Magazine, packed with exclusive interviews, player features and in-depth stories from across the women’s game.
Discover more stories, interviews and features from the world of women’s football — including players, teams and posters... loads more of what you’re reading about here.
Also available at TG Jones, WHSmith, Asda, Morrisons and independent newsagents.