Nigerian defender Rofiat Adenike Imuran has completed her move to English Women’s Super League side Aston Villa from London City Lionesses ahead of the 2026/27 season, Trybal News reports.
The 22-year-old defender brings valuable WSL experience to Villa after spending the past two seasons with London City Lionesses, where she played an important role in the club’s historic promotion to the top flight.
Imuran joined London City in 2024 following an impressive campaign with Nigeria at the 2022 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup. The Falconets reached the quarter-finals before losing 2-0 to the Netherlands.
Her international career has continued to progress at senior level. Imuran was part of the Super Falcons squad that reached the Round of 16 at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. Nigeria were eventually eliminated by England on penalties after a goalless draw following extra time.
The defender was also involved in Nigeria’s campaign at the recently concluded 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The Super Falcons suffered a surprise quarter-final defeat to eventual champions Cameroon, an early exit that also ended Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Before her move to England, Imuran began her professional career in France with Reims. She spent two seasons with the club between 2022 and 2024, making more than 30 appearances across all competitions before moving to London City Lionesses.
Aston Villa have confirmed that Imuran has signed a three-year contract, keeping her at the club until 2029.
Her arrival is expected to strengthen Villa’s defensive options as the club looks to improve on a ninth-place finish last season. The Midlands side endured a difficult campaign defensively and will be hoping Imuran can add competition, athleticism and depth to their backline.
The Nigerian international could make her Aston Villa debut next weekend when Villa open their 2026/27 WSL campaign away against former champions Chelsea.
The move marks another significant step in Imuran’s career as she looks to establish herself at the highest level of women’s football in England.
