Manchester United Women have confirmed that Alessia Russo will leave the club when her contract expires at the end of the month.
The 24-year-old - a lifelong Red Devils supporter - has donned the Man United colours for the past three years and has developed into one of Marc Skinner's top performers in the final third.
Russo played a key role in Man United's historic 2022-23 season, netting 13 goals in 24 matches across all tournaments as Skinner's side finished second in the Women's Super League table, thereby earning qualification for the Champions League.
The England international also helped the Red Devils reach their first-ever Women's FA Cup final, but her contract situation was an unwelcome distraction for Man United amid interest from Arsenal.
The Gunners apparently had a world-record £500,000 bid turned down by Man United in January, and Skinner affirmed that he was optimistic of an agreement being struck to extend Russo's contract.
Man United were said to have been prepared to bow to Russo's wage demands, but a deal ultimately could not be reached, and the forward will seek pastures new for the 2023-24 season.
"Manchester United can confirm that Alessia Russo will leave the football club on completion of her contract at the end of June. Everyone at the football club would like to thank Alessia for her service and wish her luck for the future," Man United said in a statement.
Russo also took to social media to pay an emotional tribute to Man United, saying: "If I ever picture myself as a little girl, I'm wearing a United shirt, with a ball glued to my feet.
"If someone told that little girl that she'd represent the club one day, create so many memories and score at Old Trafford, I can't imagine how she'd contain the excitement.
"For me, football has always been about the hard yards, and about leaving a legacy to be proud of. In all I've done, I've given my best with the hope of one day leaving the shirt in a better place for those who come next.
"I'm going to miss my teammates, the fans and the staff at the club so much. Thank you to each and every one of you for allowing me to live my dream, it has been a pleasure to wear the 23 shirt. See you all soon."
Russo - who represented Chelsea, Brighton & Hove Albion and American college team North Carolina Tar Heels before making the move to Old Trafford - bids farewell to Man United having amassed a total of 27 goals in 59 appearances for the club in all competitions.
With her exit from Man United now confirmed, Russo is believed to be on the brink of a move to Arsenal following the North London club's failed attempts to sign her over the winter.
The 24-year-old was called up to the England squad for the upcoming World Cup and will link up with her international teammates next week ahead of their friendly with Portugal on July 1. body check tags ::
