Jakobsson says there are 'no limits' for new club

Sweden forward Sofia Jakobsson says "there are no limits" on what London City Lionesses can achieve after she joined the club on a two-year deal.

The 34-year-old made the switch from San Diego Wave to England's second tier on Friday.

She is the latest statement signing from London City under the ambitious ownership of Michele Kang, following the arrivals of Sweden captain Kosovare Asllani and Women's Championship record signing Izzy Goodwin.

"I think that would be the coolest thing I could do in my career, to bring up a team to the highest league and go from there," Jakobsson told BBC Sport.

"It would be amazing to do that this year. There are no limits for this team."

Jakobsson has made over 100 appearances for Sweden, winning a silver and a bronze medal at two Olympic Games.

She is eligible to face Blackburn Rovers on Sunday as London City Lionesses play their first away game of the season.

Jakobsson has played at some of the world's biggest clubs including Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid prior to her move to America.

But despite offers from elsewhere, Jakobsson was drawn to London City Lionesses due to the ambition shown by the club to develop women's football.

"I felt this was a really interesting project, especially with Michele Kang as the owner," said Jakobsson.

"It’s really interesting to be part of a club that is supporting women and wants to do something big. I have been on journeys like this before with Real Madrid and San Diego Wave, who were new teams.

"I have played for big clubs. But I also feel like this is a huge project. I see great opportunities here for the future.

"To be part of a club that wants to do such good things for women’s sports and football in general, is really interesting for me."

Jakobsson describes owner Kang as a "power woman" and says she consulted Sweden team-mate Asllani before making a decision to join.

She met the squad on Thursday and took part in two training sessions before the club confirmed her arrival on transfer deadline day.

"[Kang] wants to show that women’s football is something to invest in and I think that’s super cool," said Jakobsson.

"This club is not in need of a men’s team. Many clubs are. All the clubs I have been with, the men’s team comes first and then a little bit after is the women’s team.

"Here every focus is on the women’s team and the academy. It’s a great feeling to feel like everything is focused on us, as women, to be successful.

"Obviously it will take some time, but I feel like the club is in the right place. I feel this group have a great chance to win the league. That is our main goal."

While clubs at the bottom of the Women's Championship that are not able to invest continue to struggle, those in the top half are thriving.

London City Lionesses, Newcastle United and Charlton Athletic have all made big strides in recent seasons, while Birmingham City are rebuilding towards becoming a WSL club again.

Spending has reached an all-time high with London City smashing the transfer record and the arrival of England defender Demi Stokes at Newcastle grabbing the headlines.

And after beating Sunderland 5-0 in their opening match, Birmingham City boss Amy Merricks is excited to see how the title race could pan out.

"This is what we want - a really competitive league and for others to be coming up against experienced players," said Merricks.

"It’s what makes everyone better. We’re creating a beast in the Championship. It will be an exciting season.

"Let’s see what comes. Every week will be a challenge no matter who you face."