Chloe Kelly joins Arsenal: Lionesses star leaves Man City on deadline day and completes loan move to Gunners

Kelly made it clear ahead of the close of the transfer window that she wanted to leave Manchester City after falling down the pecking order. The England star has now been granted her wish after signing for Arsenal on loan for the rest of the season and will hope to enjoy regular football now at the Gunners.

Brighton and Manchester United were also linked with moves for Kelly in the final hours of the transfer window, but it is Arsenal who have won the race for her signature after City accepted a very late bid from the Gunners. Kelly had made just one WSL start for City this season and her contract with the club is due to expire in the summer.

Manager Renée Slegers told the club's media: “Chloe is an exciting attacking player and will be a great addition to our squad as we approach the second half of the season. She’s direct and explosive, with huge natural talent and ability. We’re all looking forward to working with Chloe as an Arsenal player in the coming months.”

Clare Wheatley added: “We’re thrilled to welcome Chloe back to Arsenal. As an academy graduate, we’ve been proud to see the career she’s gone on to enjoy, both at club and international level. We’re delighted she’ll be representing Arsenal again as we aim to compete for honours this season.”

Kelly will wear the number 18 jersey at Arsenal.

Arsenal's next game is against Kelly's parent club Manchester City on Sunday in the Women's Super League.