Nigeria-eligible midfielder Ashanti Akpan has completed a permanent move to Newcastle United Women, ending a 12-year association with Chelsea.
The 20-year-old joins the Magpies from the Barclays Women’s Super League side after spending the first half of the season on loan at Southampton Women. The transfer is subject to FA clearance.
Akpan joined Chelsea’s academy at the age of seven and progressed through the ranks before making her senior debut at 17, coming on as a substitute in a Women’s FA Cup tie against Reading. She later signed her first professional contract with the London club.
Mourinho and Ashanti during her early days at Chelsea. Photo Credit: Ashanti/Instagram
During her development, Akpan gained valuable experience in the second tier, featuring for Birmingham City Women last season and making 15 appearances for Southampton earlier this campaign.
At international level, the midfielder has represented England across the youth age groups up to under-23 level.
Photo Credit: Newcastle women
She featured for England at the 2024 UEFA Women’s Under-19 Championship, where the team reached the semi-finals, and made her under-23 debut in April 2025 against Spain.
Born in Warsaw to a Polish mother and Nigerian father, Akpan is eligible to represent Poland, Nigeria or England. She is also the sister of fellow professional footballer Ashley Akpan.
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Speaking after completing her move, Akpan said she was eager to contribute to Newcastle’s promotion ambitions.
“I’m happy to be joining and I can’t wait to get started,” she said. “I want to help this team to get promoted into the WSL. I’ve gained experience in this league, and I’m excited to bring everything I’ve learnt into Newcastle now.”
Photo Credit: Newcastle women
Newcastle manager Tanya Oxtoby described Akpan as a player with significant potential.
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“Ashanti has gained good experience at this level in the last couple of seasons and has international experience under her belt,” Oxtoby said. “She breaks up play well in midfield and helps us build through the thirds. She’s a great character and will add to our culture.”
