Newcastle United sign Chelsea midfielder Akpan | OneFootball

Newcastle United have completed the signing of Chelsea midfielder Ashanti Akpan on a permanent deal.

WSL Full-Time were informed of the news via an official club press release from The Magpies this afternoon.

The 20-year-old midfielder joins Newcastle United after spending the last 12 years with The Blues. The Tynesiders have paid an undisclosed fee to secure her services on a permanent basis.

Akpan progressed through Chelsea’s academy system and briefly broke into the club’s first team. She made one senior appearance for the South West Londoners which came in an Adobe Women’s FA Cup quarter-final tie against Reading in the 2022/2023 season. The youngster has since continued her development in loan spells with Birmingham City and Southampton.

On the international stage, Akpan has represented England at various youth levels.

After joining Newcastle United, Akpan said “I’m happy to be joining and I can’t wait to get started. I want to help this team to get promoted into the WSL.

“I’ve gained experience in this league, and I am excited to bring everything I’ve learnt into Newcastle now.”

Akpan could be in-line to make her Newcastle United debut when the club travel to The Valley to face Charlton Athletic in Barclays WSL2 on Sunday.