Brighton sign Finland international midfielder from AC Milan

Nora Heroum, 26, joins from AC Milan ahead of the new Women’s Super League season.

Heroum is Hope Powell’s third summer signing, having already brought in England youngster Katie Robinson from Bristol City, and goalkeeper Katie Startup from Charlton Athletic.

The Finland international, who celebrates her 26th birthday next Monday, has joined Albion on a one-year contract and met her new team-mates this week after they returned to pre-season training.

Helsinki-born Heroum was just 16 when she started her senior career with Finnish club HJK. She also played for FC Honka and Haland United in Finland before two years in Denmark with Fortuna Hjorring.

She moved to Italy in 2017 and had a season with Brescia before joining AC Milan in 2018. She made more than 40 appearances until the Italian League season was curtailed in March because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Heroum was just 17 when she made her Finland debut in 2012 and has gone on to win more than 70 caps for her country. She has won domestic honours in all three countries where she has played.

Head coach Powell said, “We’re really delighted to have brought in a player of Nora’s experience and ability.

“She has played at the top level in what is a really strong domestic set-up in Italy for three seasons and has vast experience of international football as well.

“She is very composed on the ball, has lots of energy and she can get forward and score goals as well. We’re looking forward to working with Nora and we believe she will be a great addition to our squad on and off the pitch.”