Manchester City have moved to strengthen their women’s squad by signing Swedish attacking midfielder Julia Spetsmark after earlier extending Nikita Parris’ current contract.
Spetsmark, 28, will join City in January 2018 from KIF Örebro DFF – her first move outside her native Sweden.
She joins the Blues as they aim to defend their three domestic titles and mount a challenge for the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
Commenting on the imminent move, Spetsmark said:
“I’ve always wanted to play in England and I’m so happy to have the chance to do that now.
“Manchester City is a big club and the calibre of the training facilities and coaching staff at the City Football Academy are really going to improve my game and technique.
“I’m an offensive player and I can’t wait to join this club and help them score goals and win trophies.”
Spetsmark will bolster a squad that had been rocked by a serious injury to striker Pauline Bremer.
The announcement of Spetsmark’s signing followed the news earlier that Nikita Parris had extended her contract with the Women’s Super League Champions.
Parris, who scored the winner in City’s FA WSL Continental Tyres Cup game against her former club Everton on Sunday, extended her contract until the end of the 2018/19 season.
She initially joined the City setup in on loan from the Toffees in January 2015 before signing a permanent deal the following year – scoring 25 goals in 65 appearances.
Parris expressed her delight at signing the new deal, and said:
“It feels amazing to have signed a new contract. It was never in doubt. I have a fighting desire and enthusiasm to play for and win trophies with this team.
“We have a lot of quality and a lot left to give.
“With the togetherness – the community spirit from the first-team men’s side to the under-9s girls – it’s a fantastic environment to be in. I’m just so happy to be here and to remain here for the coming seasons.”
Nick Cushing, Head Coach of Manchester City Women, added:
“Julia is exactly the kind of player we’re looking for.
“This season our aim is to score more goals and entertain the fans every time we step on the pitch.
“Julia has the talent, the passion and the drive to help us do that.
“I’m delighted Nikita has extended her contract with City. Her performances have been exceptional and she has made a real difference since joining the squad.
“I think she has even more to give and I’m looking forward to what’s ahead.”