Araya Dennis joins Leicester City Women on loan for the 2026/27 season. The 20-year-old forward, who signed her first professional contract with Tottenham Hotspur Women in February 2024, will add depth to the Foxes' attack.
Tottenham Hotspur Women announced the move on Tuesday, with the club wishing Dennis the best of luck as she heads to the East Midlands. The loan follows a spell at Crystal Palace, where she helped the club reach the Women’s Super League for the first time.
Dennis spent the remainder of the 2023/24 campaign on loan at Crystal Palace after signing her contract. Her contributions were instrumental in Palace’s historic promotion, and she later returned to Tottenham for the 2024/25 season.
During the 2024/25 season, Dennis made seven appearances, including a start in Tottenham’s season-opener win over West Ham United in September 2025. She also scored her first goal for the club in a 2-0 win over Crystal Palace in December 2025, a match that highlighted her growing influence.
The loan to Southampton in the second half of the 2024/25 season gave Dennis further first-team experience, adding to her development as an England youth international who has featured in the Under-19 and Under-20 squads.
How does the loan affect Leicester City Women?
Leicester City Women will look to integrate Dennis into their attacking options ahead of the new campaign. The Foxes’ manager said the forward’s pace and work rate will fit the team’s style, and the club will monitor her progress through the season.
What experience does Dennis bring?
Araya Dennis brings a wealth of experience from her time at Tottenham, Crystal Palace, and Southampton. Her 20-year-old body is still developing, but she has already scored in the Women’s League Cup and made her first WSL start in a win over West Ham United.
How did Tottenham support her development?
Tottenham Hotspur Women supported Dennis by offering her a professional contract in February 2024 and then arranging loan spells that gave her regular playing time. The club’s decision to loan her to Crystal Palace and Southampton helped her gain top-flight experience.
What next for Dennis at Leicester?
Leicester City Women will aim to give Dennis regular minutes as the season unfolds. For fans interested in the upcoming schedule, check the fixtures page, and to see the full roster, visit the squad page.
The loan will allow Dennis to showcase her talent in the Women’s Super League and strengthen Leicester’s attack for the 2026/27 season.
