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League: EPLSport: SoccerCountry: JapanCategory: Transactions

Japan goalkeeper Akane Okuma signs with Aston Villa

BBC Football • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 21, 2026, 9:22 AM

Last updated Jul 21, 2026

Japan goalkeeper Akane Okuma signs with Aston Villa
Summary

Aston Villa has officially signed Japan goalkeeper Akane Okuma, pending visa approval. The 21-year-old joins the Women's Super League team from INAC Kobe Leonessa, where she played since 2024. Okuma was part of Japan's squad that won the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup. Villa's director of women's football praised Okuma's potential, while she expressed excitement about joining the club. The WSL is set to expand to 14 teams in the upcoming season.

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BBC Football
Market Watch
  • •Okuma joins Villa from Japanese club INAC Kobe Leonessa.
  • •She won the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup with Japan.
  • •Villa's director emphasized the club's focus on global talent.
  • •The Women's Super League will expand to 14 teams next season.
  • •Okuma expressed enthusiasm for her new opportunity.
Latest Updates
  • 9:22 AMBBC Football — Japan goalkeeper Okuma signs for Aston Villa
What they're saying
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Aston Villa announce the signing of 21-year-old Japan goalkeeper Akane Okuma.

Related Teams & Leagues
Aston VillaEPLSoccer

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