Former National Women's Soccer League Rookie of the Year Jenna Nighswonger has joined Arsenal, the club announced on Thursday.

In the latest NWSL news, Jenna Nighswonger bid farewell to NJ/NY Gotham FC for Arsenal, Denver formally announced itself as the next NWSL expansion side and NC Courage dealt forward Haley Hopkins to the KC Current.

The new Women's Super League marks the start of a new era for reigning champions Chelsea, with long-serving boss Emma Hayes having departed in summer to start a new adventure with the USA Women's team.

Chelsea are still unbeaten in this season’s campaign and are seven points clear at the top of the table. Manchester

Arsenal defender Laura Wienroither might move on loan to Manchester City before the Women's Super League transfer window closes at 23:00 GMT.

BREAKING: USWNT and Gotham FC defender Jenna Nighswonger is transferring to Arsenal for a $100,000 fee, sources tell @itsmeglinehan. Details: https://t.co/KrCzWMIxmR pic.twitter.com/0WoINk85tt

On one side the reigning Women’s Super League champions over the last five seasons, still unbeaten under a new manager. On the opposite side the current major contenders for upsetting Chelsea Women’s WSL aspirations of a sixth consecutive title, still unbeaten under a new manager.

Crystal Palace were promoted to replace Bristol City in the top flight, while on a wider note, the league is now under the management and operation of a new organisation set up to lead women's football towards further growth and progression, with Nikki Doucet overseeing both the WSL and Championship in a new phase for the game.

Follow live text commentary, score updates and match stats from Arsenal vs Crystal Palace in the Women's Super League