Aston Villa sign Super Falcons defender Rofiat Imuran
Aston Villa Women have permanently signed Nigerian left-back Rofiat Imuran from London City Lionesses, sealing the rofiat imuran signing Villa supporters were tracking in late August 2026. The 22-year-old Super Falcons defender arrives on a reported three-year deal and becomes the club's ninth summer signing as Villa rebuild their WSL defense. Head coach Natalia Arroyo's squad now adds a left-back with WSL experience after Imuran helped London City Lionesses earn promotion.
Imuran brings international experience and familiarity with English women's football. Villa finished ninth last season and prioritized defensive reinforcements.
Key Takeaways
- Imuran joins Aston Villa Women on a permanent deal from London City Lionesses.
- The 22-year-old Nigerian left-back is Villa's ninth signing of the summer transfer window.
- She has featured for Nigeria at the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup and the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations.
- Reports indicate a three-year contract that could keep her at Villa until 2029.
- She could debut when Villa open their WSL campaign away to Chelsea.
Who is Rofiat Imuran?
Imuran is a Nigerian international left-back who began her professional career in France with Stade de Reims between 2022 and 2024. Daily Post Nigeria reports she made 27 league appearances and scored seven goals across two seasons with Reims.
She moved to London City Lionesses in 2024 and played a key role in the club's promotion to the WSL. Soccernet.ng notes she previously represented Nigeria at the 2022 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup with the Falconets, reaching the quarter-finals.
Why did Aston Villa sign Rofiat Imuran?
Villa endured defensive struggles during a ninth-place WSL finish last season. Sporting Director Marisa Ewers welcomed Imuran as the club seeks greater strength and depth at the back.
Her left-back profile, age, and experience at club and international level fit Arroyo's rebuild. The signing follows a busy window as Villa reshape the squad ahead of a tougher campaign.
What does the signing mean for Birmingham and Villa's wider appeal?
Major women's football transfers often boost a club's profile far beyond matchday. New arrivals frequently relocate to the West Midlands, where demand for premium homes remains strong among professionals settling near Villa's base.
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When could Imuran make her Aston Villa debut?
According to Soccernet.ng, Imuran could feature when Villa begin the 2026-27 WSL season away to former champions Chelsea next weekend. She was also part of the Super Falcons squad at the recently concluded 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
For full transfer details, see Daily Post Nigeria's report on the permanent move.