England forward Alessia Russo will leave Manchester United this summer, with Arsenal one of many clubs strongly linked with signing the 24 year old, who reportedly turned down an offer that would have made her the highest paid player in United’s short history.

Arsenal had a world-record bid for Russo turned down in the January transfer window, with United now facing the certain prospect of letting their striker leave for free this summer.

With the World Cup coming up next month Russo will be keen to resolve her club situation and clubs in Europe and the USA as well as Arsenal are all said to be interested in the striker, who played with Arsenal defender Lotte Wubben-Moy in North Carolina in the college stage of her career.

Russo scored ten goals in the WSL last season and was an important part of the England side that won last summer’s Euros, scoring four goals from the bench including an audacious backheel in the semi final against Sweden.

Manchester United confirmed Russo’s departure with the following statement: 

“Manchester United can confirm that Alessia Russo will leave the football club on completion of her contract at the end of June. The England international joined United in the summer of 2020 and made her competitive debut in our 5-2 Women's Super League win at Birmingham City in September of that same season. Alessia scored her first goal in our 3-0 league win over Brighton and Hove Albion at Leigh Sports Village in October 2020. Alessia went on to make 59 appearances in all competitions as a Red, scoring 26 goals in the process. Her time at the club culminated in a record-breaking 2022/23 season for United Women, with the team finishing second in the WSL, securing Champions League qualification for the first time, as well as making it to our maiden Women's FA Cup Final. Everyone at the football club would like to thank Alessia for her service and wish her luck for the future.”

It’s been the hardest decision I’ve ever had to make.@ManUtdWomen, thank you for everything ?? pic.twitter.com/kzvQ0zgL9V

— Alessia Russo (@alessiarusso7) June 16, 2023