Wu Chengshu File photo: VCG

Canberra United on Thursday announced the signing of Chinese midfielder Wu Chengshu for the new season of Australia's women's soccer top flight.

Wu, 26, officially joined the A-League Women side from China's Women's Super League side Jiangsu Suning FC.

Wu, who can play on both wings, is a regular starter for the Chinese national team.

She scored an important goal in China's win over Japan in February's AFC Asian Cup semifinal in which China came from twice behind and won on penalties.

Chris Gardiner, chief executive of Canberra United, described the signing as a landmark moment for the club.

"We are delighted to announce the signing of Wu Chengshu for Canberra United Football Club," he said in a media release on Thursday.

"The signature of a player of the calibre of Wu Chengshu reflects the club's intentions for the new season and I am sure she will prove to be a real asset to the club and a particular favorite with our fans."

Wu will become the first Chinese international to play for the club and is the second to sign for an A-League Women club for the 2022-23 season, after Xiao Yuyi joined Adelaide United earlier in November.

Canberra United, who have won two championships, finished seventh in the 10-team standings of the 2021-22 season, winning two of 14 games and drawing seven.

"We are extremely excited to welcome Wu Chengshu to the club, and I am looking forward to working with her and helping her integrate into being an important part of our team for the new season," head coach Njegosh Popovich said.

"She is a technically gifted footballer who reads the game really well and has a desire to score goals."

Canberra will open their season against Perth Glory on November 19.

Xinhua