Arsenal are “expected to complete” the signing of North Carolina Courage fullback Emily Fox, according to The Athletic.

The Gunners did have a full complement heading into the January transfer window, preventing them from making any further signings this month.

However, the departure of Noelle Maritz to Aston Villa on a permanent basis a few days ago has created an opening in the squad.

Fox has already been pictured with the first team during their warm-weather training camp in Portugal so the official signing announcement appears to be imminent.

What do Arsenal fans need to know about Fox?

The 25-year-old has spent her entire career playing in the United States, being a regular starter for college team North Carolina Tar Heels before being drafted as first overall pick by Racing Louisville in the 2021 draft. However, Fox moved back to North Carolina in January last year for the start of the 2023 NWSL season.

At international level, the defender has been capped 39 times by her country, with her first major competition win coming in 2022 as the US Lifted the CONCACAF Women’s Championship.

Fox was also part of the US teams that have won back-to-back SheBelieves Cups in 2022 and 2023. She did, though, experience a disappointing World Cup last summer. Despite starting all four matches at the tournament, the team were knocked out by Sweden at the round of 16 stage.

Arsenal have needed a new right-back

Gunners boss Jonas Eidevall has been keen on strengthening his options on the right-hand side of defence for quite some time. Ever since Laura Wienroither suffered an ACL injury at the end of last season, Arsenal have been short of numbers in that position.

The ever-versatile Kate McCabe has provided some cover but bringing in a more recognised right-back will help Eidevall’s team maintain their title challenge this campaign.