Aston Villa announce the signing of Manchester United’s Lucy Staniforth on an initial 18-month deal as they complete their second signing.
The 30-year-old joins following the contract termination despite signing a new contract with the Red Devils in August 2022 after speculation of a summer departure.
Staniforth will join former United teammate Kirsty Hanson who is currently at Villa on a season long loan and becomes the second of Carla Ward’s signings after the arrival of Jordan Nobbs.
The English international enjoyed a three-season stint at United, making her competitive debut in their 3-0 victory over Brighton and Hove Albion.
Her first goal came later that season where she converted against Burnley in a 6-0 win in the FA Cup.
After 41 appearances for the Reds, Staniforth departs for the claret and blue side and will offer Ward with a plethora of options in the midfield.
The York-born midfielder has earned 17 senior caps for England and with the World Cup on the horizon, Staniforth will be looking to jump straight into action.
Ward tells Villa media: “Lucy is someone who will bring a huge amount of experience to this squad.
“She’s a winner and is someone who can play off both sides as well as centrally. We’re delighted to have her at Aston Villa.”
The former number 37 joins with a wealth of experience previously played at Sunderland, Lincoln, Bristol City, Liverpool, and Birmingham City before making her 2020 transfer to United.
Speaking to Aston Villa TV, Staniforth demonstrates her excitement for the new challenge ahead of her.
“Seeing how the clubs progressed in the last few years, something I wanted to be a part of, there’s so much to look forward to in the future.
“It’s a huge part [getting back into England squad] of my motivation and hopefully getting myself back into selection, it’s in the back of my mind but Aston Villa is at the forefront.
“You can’t ignore the start of the season, they really hit the ground running, the progression they’ve made you can’t ignore from a far.
“I’m someone who’s whole-heartedly committed to the cause, I’m super competitive, like to get on the ball and get things started.”
Staniforth could face her former side as early as April, 29 when they welcome the Reds to the Bescot Stadium for a WSL clash.
