Arsenal manager Jonas Eidevall has prompted speculation that the Gunners may make a move for San Diego Wave defender Naomi Girma.

Speaking on the Men In Blazers podcast, the Gunners boss admitted that he is a big fan of the 23-year-old, who impressed whilst playing for the USA at the World Cup:

“I can’t tell you here on the podcast because I would ruin all of the scouting secrets for Arsenal… I think she’s astonishing, phenomenal… she’s a world-class talent”.

While Eidevall rates Girma, it should be pointed out that she signed a new three-year contract with Wave FC back in June so it would be a surprise if she is on the market this summer.

Of course, money can talk and Arsenal are not shy when it comes to paying big fees, having tabled a world-record bid for Alessia Russo back in January, so it is one to keep close tabs on.

Girma’s club career so far

After winning the 2019 Women’s College Cup with Stanford Cardinals, who she captained, Girma was first pick for the San Diego Wave in the 2022 NWSL Draft.

In her first season, she was the NWSL Rookie of the Year, as well as being named the league’s Defender of the Year.

International Success

On the international stage, Girma has made her way through the ranks, playing for the USA at Under 17, Under 19 and Under 20 level. She played a key role in her country winning the 2020 CONCACAF Women’s U-20 Championship.

The centre-back could have made her senior debut as early as December 2019 but she withdrew from the squad due to the injury. It took until April 2022 before Girma finally received her first cap in a friendly against Uzbekistan.

Subsequently, the defender has racked up 20 appearances for the national team, including four at this summer’s World Cup, where the US were knocked out in the round of 16 by Sweden on penalties.