Why this season matters
With Euro 2025 now concluded and England’s Lionesses retaining their continental crown, excitement for the coming WSL season is higher than ever. Clubs are making major moves to capitalise on the momentum, investing in top talent and breaking transfer records to raise the standard of women’s football in England.
Standout New Signings
Arsenal
- Olivia Smith arrives from Liverpool in a landmark £1 million transfer—making her the first seven‑figure signing in women’s football history.
- Chloe Kelly returns on a permanent deal after a successful loan spell at the club.
- Taylor Hinds, the former Liverpool vice-captain, joins on a free transfer and adds leadership and versatility in defence.
- Anneke Borbe, the German goalkeeper from Wolfsburg, strengthens their goalkeeping options.
Chelsea
- Keira Walsh returns from Barcelona in a high‑profile move aimed at steering Chelsea back into title contention.
- Naomi Girma, the US centre‑back, joined in January 2025 to bolster Chelsea’s defensive line.
- Femke Liefting arrives as a promising goalkeeper from AZ Alkmaar.
Manchester City
- Sydney Lohmann, a German international midfielder from Bayern Munich, signs a three‑year deal, bringing Champions League experience and creativity to the midfield.
Liverpool and Aston Villa
- Sam Kerr, previously on loan from Bayern, has made a permanent switch to Liverpool, returning to the WSL with proven goal‑scoring credentials.
- Jill Baijings, another Bayern loanee, joins Aston Villa permanently to add attacking depth.
Brighton & Hove Albion
- Carla Camacho, a young Spanish forward from Real Madrid, joins after recovering from a serious injury.
- Caitlin Hayes, the experienced Irish defender, strengthens Brighton’s back line.
Leicester City
- Olivia Clark, the Wales international goalkeeper, joins from Twente to compete for the number one spot.
Team-by-Team Summary
| Club | Top Signing(s) | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| Arsenal | Smith, Kelly, Hinds | Record-breaking signings and added experience |
| Chelsea | Walsh, Girma, Liefting | International quality across midfield and defence |
| Man City | Lohmann | Champions League pedigree to boost creativity |
| Liverpool | Kerr | Proven WSL goal‑scorer returns |
| Brighton | Camacho, Hayes | Youth potential and defensive solidity |
| Leicester | Clark | Increased competition for the starting goalkeeper |
What to Watch This Season
- Historic transfers – Olivia Smith’s £1 million move sets a new benchmark for women’s football.
- International influence – Players from Spain, Germany, and the US are adding depth and quality across the league.
- Title race drama – Arsenal and Chelsea are both retooling to challenge for the WSL crown, with Manchester City quietly strengthening.
This season promises to showcase the rapid growth of women’s football in England, with new talent ready to make headlines from the very first whistle.