Silly season in the transfer window continues to buzz as new reports indicate that Arsenal are poised to launch a second bid for Manchester United and England star goalkeeper, Mary Earps.
The 30-year-old, who gained widespread recognition for her standout performances during this summer's FIFA Women's World Cup, has emerged as a hot commodity, with her services between the posts garnering attention from across the league.
How would you choose? 🤔#MaryEarps #ArsenalWFC #ManchesterUnited #FAWSL pic.twitter.com/HYA9AkAngj
— Soccerdonna (@soccerdonna) August 31, 2023
During the final match against Spain, Earps showcased her mettle by saving a crucial penalty, contributing significantly to the Lionesses' journey. Her heroics earned her the prestigious Golden Glove award of the tournament, solidifying her status as the best goalkeeper in the world. Last week, murmurs circulated about United rejecting a world-record bid from an anoyomous club. Sources have now revealed that that bid was tabled by Arsenal. Earps' current contract with Manchester United is set to expire in a year.
Manchester United are keen on preserving their position among Europe's elite and view Earps as a linchpin within their squad. They're reportedly striving to secure an extension that would maintain her presence at the club. However, according to sources at DAZN, Arsenal's intent on fortifying their lineup for the upcoming season has prompted them to strategize anew, preparing another bid for England's premier goalkeeper.
🚨TRANSFER NEWS🚨
As per @alexibaceta23, Arsenal are preparing for a second bid for Mary Earps. pic.twitter.com/YBTWI2XcWT— ata football (@atafball) August 30, 2023
The existing record for goalkeeper transfers stands at £100,000, attributed to Kailen Sheridan's move from NJ/NY Gotham to San Diego Wave in the NWSL. Arsenal's forthcoming offer for Earps is said to significantly surpass this benchmark, underlining the club's determination to secure her services. The Gunners are seemingly sparing no expense to bring her on board.
Notably, Earps wouldn't be the first Manchester United player to make the leap to Arsenal this summer. Alessia Russo, the talented England striker, transitioned to the Gunners via a free transfer, after the club's earlier record bids for her were declined by Manchester United. The transfer saga highlights the competitive landscape within the Women's Super League.
Fara Williams, former England midfielder, weighed in on the potential move, stating, "She’s really valuable [to United]…She’s an ambitious human being and she wants to achieve the maximum she can in her career. She will want to win trophies." Williams' insight underscores the pivotal crossroads Earps is facing in her career.
🗣 "She's an ambitious human being and she wants to achieve the maximum she can in her career"
Fara Williams on Mary Earps 🔝 pic.twitter.com/7VPxADJcfw— Sky Sports WSL (@SkySportsWSL) August 30, 2023
Earps' tenure with Manchester United has been marked by excellence. Arriving in 2019 from Wolfsburg, she rapidly established herself as a key figure, solidifying her reputation as England's top goalkeeper. Her standout performance in the European Championship last summer, coupled with her recognition as FIFA's Women's Goalkeeper of the Year, further underscore her remarkable contributions.
The looming transfer window deadline adds urgency to the unfolding narrative. Clubs have until September 14 to finalize their rosters before the new season kicks off on October 1. As speculation swirls and negotiations continue, Mary Earps' future hangs in the balance, leaving fans and pundits alike eagerly awaiting the next chapter in this dynamic transfer saga.
