Manchester United Women have completed their first signing of the summer transfer window after securing Spain international Andrea Medina on a free transfer from Atletico Madrid. The versatile 22-year-old defender has signed a three-year contract at Leigh Sports Village, with the club retaining the option to extend her stay by a further 12 months.
United had been tracking Medina for several months, with the move widely expected after Atletico Madrid confirmed she would leave when her contract expired at the end of June.
The Red Devils officially unveiled the defender on Wednesday, marking the first arrival of the summer as Marc Skinner continues strengthening his squad ahead of the new Women’s Super League campaign.
Director of women’s football Matt Johnson welcomed the signing, saying:
“Andrea has all of the technical attributes, character and determination required to thrive at Manchester United. She is a player we have admired for a long time and we are delighted to add her unique qualities to our group, particularly after significant interest from clubs across Europe.
“Despite being only 22 and still having enormous potential to develop, Andrea already has excellent experience. Everyone at the club is excited to help her achieve her ambitions in the years ahead.”
After progressing through the academies at Camas and Sevilla, Medina made her Liga F debut for Real Betis at just 15 years old before earning a move to Atletico Madrid in 2022.
She established herself as one of Spain’s brightest young defenders, helped Atletico lift the Copa de la Reina in 2023 and earned her first senior Spain call-up earlier this year.
Medina also faced Manchester United three times during last season’s UEFA Women’s Champions League, including a knockout tie won by the English side. Those encounters left a lasting impression.
“Manchester United has an incredible history and I am excited to join a team determined to write its own chapter at one of the biggest clubs in the world,” Medina said.
“Playing against United last season showed me how strong this team is and how much the club means to its supporters. The fans who travelled to Madrid created an unbelievable atmosphere, and that stayed with me. I can’t wait to represent them every time I step onto the pitch.
“I am ready for this next stage of my career and excited to show my qualities in the intensity of English football.”
Although naturally a left-back, Medina’s versatility could prove invaluable for Skinner.
Anna Sandberg enjoyed an impressive campaign as United’s first-choice left-back last season, meaning Medina may initially compete for that position while also offering cover across the back line.
The Spaniard spent significant periods of last season playing at centre-back for Atletico Madrid and has taken United’s No. 6 shirt, suggesting Skinner may also view her as a long-term option in central defence.
Her ability to operate in multiple defensive roles provides valuable tactical flexibility as United prepare to compete on both domestic and European fronts next season.
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