Taylor Hinds is set to leave Liverpool Women at the end of June after five years with the club and is poised to join Arsenal on a free transfer. The 26-year-old left-back, who also served as Liverpool's vice-captain, will strengthen Arsenal's defensive options after they secured the Champions League title and finished second in the Women's Super League.
Hinds' move to Arsenal marks a return to her roots, having come through the Gunners' academy. She even made a senior appearance for Arsenal in the Conti Cup in 2017 before departing for Everton in 2018. In July 2020, she joined Liverpool, where she became a key player, notably contributing to their promotion back to the WSL in 2022, playing every league game that season and the following top-flight campaign. Her consistent performance was rewarded with a new long-term contract in January 2022.
Liverpool had offered Hinds a new contract, keen to retain the experienced defender. However, the lure of Champions League football with Arsenal proved too strong. While naturally disappointed to lose a senior player, Liverpool respects her decision to pursue this opportunity.
Hinds' versatility is a significant asset. Predominantly a left-back, she can also cover the right-back position or play as a right wing-back, providing valuable squad depth for Arsenal. This versatility is particularly important given potential departures from Arsenal, such as Laura Wienroither, who has been linked with a move after her loan spell at Manchester City.
During her time at Liverpool, Hinds made over 100 appearances and was appointed vice-captain in 2023. She has represented England at youth international level but has since opted to represent Jamaica at the senior level.
Off the field, Hinds demonstrated courage and leadership in March when she spoke out against "sexually inappropriate comments" directed at her by a spectator during a Women's FA Cup match against Arsenal. The incident led to the removal of the individual from the stadium, with both clubs offering their full support to Hinds. Her statement emphasized the importance of continuing to improve the sport for current and future generations.
As Hinds prepares for her next chapter at Arsenal, Liverpool are in the process of appointing a new manager to succeed Matt Beard, who departed in March.
