Aston Villa have announced the signing of Japanese goalkeeper Akane Okuma from INAC Kobe Leonessa, subject to visa approval. The 21-year-old represents the latest addition to the Women’s Super League club’s roster.
Okuma, who began her professional career at JEF United Chiba, joined INAC Kobe Leonessa in 2024 prior to her move to England. At the international level, she was part of Japan’s squad that captured the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup. She will reunite at Villa with fellow Japan international Maya Hijikata, who was also part of that championship-winning squad.
Marisa Ewers, Aston Villa’s director of women’s football, described Okuma as an exciting young prospect with considerable upside. Ewers noted that the club actively seeks talent across various global markets and views Okuma’s profile as an excellent fit for the organization. The goalkeeper expressed her enthusiasm for joining the club, stating she felt fortunate to become part of Aston Villa and expressing eagerness to contribute on the pitch.
The signing comes as the WSL prepares for the next campaign. Aston Villa finished ninth in the 12-team league structure last season. The league is undergoing expansion, with plans to feature 14 teams in the 2026-27 season. Fixture scheduling for the upcoming campaign is set to be released on 30 July.