Aston Villa have signed Japan international goalkeeper Akane Okuma for their Women's Super League squad, subject to visa approval. The 21-year-old joins from INAC Kobe Leonessa, adding an experienced international to the club's ranks as it looks to strengthen ahead of the new WSL season.

Okuma began her senior career at JEF United Chiba before moving to INAC Kobe Leonessa in 2024, and has represented Japan at youth level and with the senior squad, including their 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup triumph alongside new team-mate Maya Hijikata. Villa finished ninth in the 12-team WSL last season, with the 2026-27 fixtures due for release on 30 July as the league expands to 14 teams.