As it is deadline day for the WSL January transfer window, let's look at the most exciting deadline day moves we have seen. From last-minute player pulls to swapping leagues. While technically a loan move, it eventually became permanent.
Keira Walsh moved on deadline day back in January 2024 from Barcelona to Chelsea. She moved back to the WSL to be closer to home after two-and-a-half seasons abroad. Chelsea agreed a free transfer with Barcelona, reported to be around £ 440k- £ 460k, after she declined a new contract and eyed a return to English football, where she previously played for Manchester City.
The midfielder has one of the world's best deep-lying playmakers. She is known for her etchincality and ability on the ball. Her range of passing, tempo control and defensive positioning elevates Chelsea's midfield stability. She is not known for scoring, but when she does, it is on the few occasions when they are bangers.
Chelsea have previously lacked a valid number 6 who constantly dictates play. Walsh filled that gap, enabling more fluid possession and transitional play. She is well-equipped for those big matches, with a wealth of experience. A Champions League winner with Barcelona and a back-to-back Euros winner with England. Her leadership at the international level, given that Leah Williamson is now the vice-captain for England.
Walsh's experience is a considerable boost to the title and Champions League campaigns. Her addition underscores Chelsea’s ambitions to reclaim domestic titles and compete for Europe's top prizes (If you can't beat them (Barcelona) buy them. This is not just a big name. It's a player whose role directly influences match control and consistency. The fee, while significant by women's standards, is not uncommon for Keira Walsh; her move to Barca was then a record. These big price moves represent value given her quality and potential resale/contract longevity.
Last season, Chloe Kelly forced a deadline-day loan from Man City to Arsenal. This came after a sour relationship with Gareth Taylor, who fell out of favour. She wanted to fall in love with football again and seek more regular football ahead of the Euros. This was a dream move: Champions League title and decisive player for England in the Euros final again. The negotiation was dramatic, with Kelly publicly criticising City before agreeing to the switch.
The move reignited Kelly's season; she became a critical attacking outlet for Arsenal. She earned minutes and confidence that were hard to come by at City. Kelly's pace, directness, and WSL experience give Arsenal another dimension in broad and central areas, particularly useful in tight games where creativity is key.
Regular football is crucial with major tournaments like the Euros on the horizon, and this move helped rebuild her momentum and visibility. Her contribution during the loan and now as a permanent signing in the summer. She helped Arsenal maintain their high standards and compete on the biggest stage.
This deal was a win-win. Arsenal strengthen their attack without an initial huge permanent outlay. Arsenal got a lioness and a fan favourite. Kelly got a fresh start that reinvigorated
her performances and career trajectory after a tough time at Man City.
Manchester City triggered Laura Blindkilde Brown's release clause for a reported £200,000. They signed the young English midfielder from Aston Villa on the 31st January. She penned a long-term deal as one of City’s key winter acquisitions.
At just 20, Blindkilde Brown already had WSL experience, was one of Villa's standout performers, and earned back-to-back Young Player of the Season awards before leaving.
She offers technical ability, creativity and energy. The lionesses can operate in advanced roles or deeper positions, giving City tactical flexibility. Unlike marguqee transfers, this signing is part of building for the future. City secured a potential England senior international who has since made her senior debut and was a reserve player for the Euros 2025. She has featured in the under-23 squads.
Access to the City’s elite training environment and exposure to silverware challenges accelerate her growth, which benefits both clubs and potentially England down the line. This is not just about immediate impact- it’s a strategic signing. City has strengthened depth, invested in a rising star, and potentially secured a future core midfielder without breaking the bank relative to other high-profile deals.
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