Cantrell, pictured right, has scored goals consistently in the FA Women's Premier League for the past two seasons and has been regularly involved with England, having had a call up to a training camp for the senior side.

The Leeds Met Carnegie student is the first summer signing by Rick Passmoor as United aim to improve on last season's highest ever league finish of third in the Women's top flight.

Cantrell, who will also be taking up the new Leeds United Ladies scholarship programme along with several other first team players as part of the club's ongoing partnership with Leeds Met, said: "I'm really pleased to have signed for Leeds United Ladies.

"It felt like the time had come for a fresh challenge and I know I'm joining an ambitious club who are looking to challenge for trophies in the coming seasons.

"I have come here to develop and improve as a footballer with Leeds and I'm looking forward to linking up with the players and getting ready for the new season.

"I would love to push on further at international level and if I perform well for Leeds then who knows."

Manager Passmoor added: "I've been working throughout the back end of last season and the close season to identify talented new players who would improve our team on the pitch and be a role model for the club off the pitch.

"Everyone knew of my desire to improve the team with certain individuals and I am very pleased with the first signing of the summer.

"We know where we need to strengthen the squad and Carla Cantrell fits the bill. I have no doubt she will be an instant hit with the supporters and her fellow players."