​Manchester United Women have confirmed that Swedish defender Lotta Okvist has joined the club from Hammarby ahead of the new Barclays FA Women’s Super League season.


Okvist is the sixth United signing of the summer off the back of last season’s Women’s Championship title and promotion, while she is only the club’s second ever overseas player following the recent arrival of Dutch midfielder and World Cup finalist Jackie Groenen.

At 22 years of age, Okvist is still a young talent and has represented Sweden at various junior international levels. That included winning the 2015 Under-19 European Championship.


She has experience of professional soccer in the United States after being signed by Boston Breakers and later being acquired by Houston Dash and traded to Orlando Pride. Okvist got her start with Swedish giants Pitea and has also played for local heavyweights Umea.


As a left-back, she would be expected to replace departed club captain Alex Greenwood, who recently sealed a move to reigning four-time back-to-back Champions League winners Lyon.


“I’m excited to be joining Manchester United, it’s a special club and I can’t wait for the opportunity to develop as a player here,” Okvist told ManUtd.com.

“I’m confident in my ability and I hope to contribute a lot to the team during this first season in one of the most competitive leagues,” she added.


“One of the main reasons for me choosing to come to United was to get to work under [manager] Casey Stoney; I think she is a fantastic coach and also a person who cares about her players. I really can’t wait to get started.”


Stoney herself said of the club's newest arrival, “Lotta is a talented Swedish Under-23 international with huge potential and great character. She will add good balance and depth to our squad, and as a left-back she has great attacking qualities that will fit well with the way we like to play; we’re really happy to have her on board with us.”


Aside, from the aforementioned Groenen, England internationals Abbie McManus and Mary Earps, Scotland forward Jane Ross and Wales midfielder Hayley Ladd are the other players to have arrived at United this summer.

United will begin the 2019/20 WSL season with a ‘baptism of fire’ style derby clash against local rivals Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on 7 September.