Tottenham Hotspur have moved quickly to land one of the WSL's most experienced midfielders, confirming the arrival of Victoria Pelova on a free transfer following her departure from north London rivals Arsenal.
The 27-year-old Netherlands international spent three seasons at the Emirates, picking up an impressive haul of silverware along the way. Pelova was part of the Arsenal squad that lifted the Women's Champions League in 2025, and she also collected two League Cups and the Champions Cup during her time with the Gunners. Crossing the north London divide will inevitably add an extra edge to fixtures between the two clubs next season.
The move is a significant coup for Spurs. Pelova arrives battle-hardened and with a point to prove after working her way back from an anterior cruciate ligament injury last year — a layoff that might have unsettled a lesser player. Instead, she responded emphatically, making 30 appearances in all competitions in her final campaign at Arsenal. The noises out of Spurs suggest the club view her fitness and form as very much back to full speed.
On the international stage, Pelova brings enormous pedigree. She has earned 71 caps for the Netherlands and featured in four consecutive major tournaments, giving Spurs a midfielder who is well accustomed to performing under pressure at the highest level.
Manager Martin Ho appears to have played a decisive role in convincing Pelova that the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium was the right next step. The player herself made no attempt to hide her enthusiasm after completing the formalities.
"It feels nice to be here, I had a lovely welcome from everyone," said Pelova. "When I had conversations with Martin Ho, he was so good. It felt immediately right to go to Spurs. I can't wait for the season, and I'm so happy to be here."
For Spurs, securing a player of Pelova's calibre on a free is shrewd business. WSL clubs have had to be increasingly creative in the transfer market, and landing a Champions League winner without a fee frees up resource that can be reinvested elsewhere in the squad.
The deal also carries symbolic weight. Pelova's move from Arsenal to Spurs is the sort of transfer that fires up supporters on both sides of north London, and her knowledge of how Arsenal operate — tactically and culturally — will not be lost on Ho as he builds his side for the coming season.
Spurs will be hoping Pelova's experience and drive help push them up the WSL table, and on the basis of what she produced at Arsenal in her final year, rival clubs would be wise to take notice.
Frequently asked
- Why did Victoria Pelova leave Arsenal?
- Pelova's contract at Arsenal came to an end following three seasons at the club, allowing her to move on a free transfer. Tottenham confirmed her signing shortly after her Arsenal departure was confirmed.
- What trophies did Victoria Pelova win at Arsenal?
- During her time at Arsenal, Pelova won the Women's Champions League in 2025, two League Cups, and the Champions Cup.
- How many international caps does Victoria Pelova have?
- Victoria Pelova has made 71 appearances for the Netherlands senior women's team and has been part of the squad for four major international tournaments.