Newcastle sign free agent after Man City coup as Wor Lasses prepare for Milan test

Whilst the Men’s team continue their preparations for the new season after a week in Japan amid plenty of transfer speculation and frustration, Becky Langley’s new-look NUFC Women squad quietly go about their business ahead of the 2024/25 season.

Now in full pre-season training and only a week away from a prestigious friendly against AC Milan at St. James on The Sela Cup weekend they are preparing at their Bullocksteads training ground and in the gym with increasing determination.

But Langley and the ;powers-that-be are also showing no signs of slowing down as they confirmed this week another excellent addition to their triple-chasing promotion charge.

They have completed the signing of Sophie Haywood on a free transfer after the expiration of her contract with Sheffield United Women, joining a major coup in Demi Stokes - the England international who arrives from Man City with vast experience at the very top - along with Claudia Moan (Sunderland), Shania Hayles (Bristol City), Amy Andrews (Durham) and Deanna Cooper (Reading) in signing for Wor Lasses this summer.

The 28-year-old striker spent time in her early career with Notts County ahead of three years in American college football with South Alabama Jaguars and Texas A&M-Commerce Lions.

Following that spell, Haywood returned to English football in 2018 with Aston Villa. The first of her two years in the Midlands saw Hull-born Haywood make 32 appearances in the Women's Championship, helping Villa earn promotion in 2020 before going on to play two seasons in the top-flight.

Haywood made the switch to Sheffield United in 2022 and, after two years in South Yorkshire, she has now completed her move to the Magpies.

On signing for the club, Haywood said: "I'm really proud to become part of this great club. The ambition and support around the team is clear to see and I'm really excited to get started."

Manager Becky Langley added: "We're delighted to welcome Sophie to our squad for the upcoming season. Sophie is a player I have previously worked with in Nottingham. She is a confident character and is sure to add depth and quality to our attacking options.

"Her experience of helping Aston Villa gain promotion from the Championship to the WSL has given her valuable experiences. She is a driven player and she mirrors the ambitions we have on and off the field."