Neville joins Charlton as Leicester sign Irish duo

Charlton Athletic have signed full-back Ashleigh Neville from Leicester City on a two-year deal, the newly-promoted Women's Super League club announced. The 33-year-old brings significant top-flight experience, having made over 100 appearances in the WSL.

Reunion with former manager

Neville reunites with Charlton manager Karen Hills, under whom she spent three years at Tottenham Hotspur, helping the club earn promotion to the top flight. 'It's an exciting journey for myself and the club so I'm really happy to be here,' Neville said. 'I know what Karen's about and she knows what I bring. I'm really looking forward to working with her again.'

Neville joined Leicester in January on a one-and-a-half-year deal, but the Foxes were relegated after losing to Charlton in a play-off in May. It is believed there was no relegation release clause in her contract, and a mutual termination was not agreed, meaning Charlton likely paid a transfer fee for the defender.

Leicester strengthen with Irish duo

Meanwhile, Leicester City have signed Republic of Ireland internationals Jessie Stapleton and Jessica Ziu from West Ham United for undisclosed fees. Versatile defender Stapleton, 21, has signed a three-year deal, while midfielder Ziu, 24, has agreed a two-year contract.

Stapleton, who can also play in midfield, struggled to break into West Ham's first team and spent loan spells at Reading, Sunderland and Nottingham Forest. 'I'm happy it's over the line and I'm excited to get going. This is a club with a lot of ambition,' Stapleton said. 'The club can help me grow as a player and I feel I can help the club get back to where it belongs.'

Ziu spent four years at West Ham, making 23 appearances, and had a six-month loan at Bristol City for the first half of last season. 'The plan and structure the club has in place is really exciting. I can't wait to get the jersey on and play in front of all the fans at King Power Stadium,' Ziu said.