Let's look at what transfers have been made in and around the WSL While I will focus on the players coming in, I will mention some big names leaving. Some clubs have yet to make any moves to sign new players to replace the players they have lost as free agents.
While writing this piece, I have seen some stark differences in the men's game; all transfers are described as ‘undisclosed fee’, and not many announce how much they paid for the player. Also, I have noticed most players leave on a free, not within the windows of their transfers, which means clubs are not paying other clubs fees for the transfers and to break their contracts, unlike the men's side, which happens more often than not.
Chelsea
Livia Peng- The 23-year-old says: 'When I was 10, I dreamed of playing for Chelsea, now my childhood dream has come true and it's so exciting.’ The 23-year-old Swiss international joins from SGS Essen. A confident shot-stopper with experience in Germany’s top flight, Peng arrives as part of Chelsea’s long-term goalkeeping reshuffle. Her contract is until 2029.
Mara Alber- One of Germany’s rising stars, the versatile 19-year-old forward signs from Hoffenheim. She brings dynamism on the wings and could thrive under Sonia Bompastor’s fast, attacking system. Paul Green, head of women’s football at Chelsea, said of the versatile forward: 'Mara is a player we have been tracking for many years, despite her young age. She established herself as a key player for Hoffenheim over the last few years. She has signed a four-year contract. She has scored 20 goals for the club and is a Germany U20 international. She is Hoffenheim’s top U17 scorer and Golden Boot winner.
Ellie Carpenter- It's a blockbuster signing. The Matildas’ star retires for former Lyon coach Sonia Bompastor as she joins a Chelsea side still eyeing European glory. "Chelsea has the team to win the Champions League, and I want to help deliver that trophy," she said. She is a two-time Champions League winner, and had an Olympic debut at 16, the youngest ever at Rio—Pacey of the wing.
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- Sophie Ingles- Wales legend says: "I’m very proud to have lifted 11 trophies here and am grateful to have done that alongside team-mates who are like family to me"
- Zecira Musovic- Goalkeeper says: "I have grown so much as a person during my time at Chelsea. It’s why it’s difficult to leave, but I feel confident about beginning something new." Malmö FF Sweden goalkeeper is excited to move back to her home country and return to the pitch after being pregnant.
- Ashley Lawrence has completed a transfer from Chelsea to OL Lyonnes, signing a three-year contract with the French club. The Canadian international, who joined Chelsea in July 2023 from Paris Saint-Germain, made 60 appearances for the Blues, contributing 3 goals and 8 assists. During her tenure, she helped Chelsea secure two consecutive Women's Super League titles, the FA Cup, and the FA Women's League Cup.
Arsenal
Chloe Kelly- The Lionesses’ hero makes her loan move from Manchester City permanent. Her departure from City followed tension over playing time. “I’m here for trophies and ready to build something special in North London,” Kelly said.
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- Amanda Ilestedt- Arsenal said on the star leaving: "Everyone at Arsenal Football Club would like to thank Amanda for her contribution to the club and we wish her and her family all the best for the future"
- Lina Hurtig to Fiorentina- Sweden international has played in Italy before, for Juventus, between 2020 and 2022
Manchester United
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- Aoife Mannion- Centre-back departs upon expiry of her contract, with the 29-year-old having played 55 times for the club since joining in 2021. Released at the end of her contract after 55 appearances. Injuries hindered her consistency, but she was an experienced presence in the squad.
Manchester City
Jade Rose- The 22-year-old versatile defender with 22 caps for Canada, becomes City's first summer signing.A top defensive prospect from Harvard and the Canadian national team, Rose brings tactical intelligence and composure. 'I am just super excited to get started,' she says. She has signed a four year contract and a versatile centre-back/ full-back. Canada’s 2023 Young Player of the Year, known for pace, tackles and composure. “City instantly felt like home… I’m ready to win the Champions Leagues.”
Iman Beney- from Young Boys to Manchester City. The 18-year-old says: 'I think City is the best solution to help develop me as a player'. She is known for her composure and technical skills, Beney is one of the most exciting young midfielders in Europe. She was a key player to end their 14-year title drought and scored a decisive penalty, Swiss team of the Year, U17 Euro star, 10 senior caps by 18.
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- Jill Roord- Netherlands international, who made 47 appearances for City, goes back to the club where she started her professional career
- Laia Aleixandri-The Spain international returns to the club where she graduated from the academy.
Everton
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- Maren Mjelde - The former Chelsea star has left after just a year with the Toffees in an injury-hit season.
Aston Villa
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- Jordan Nobbs, England international, says: "It's been a privilege to wear the shirt and represent the club."
Liverpool
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- Taylor Hinds will leave Liverpool which ends her five-year stint as vice-captain at her contract expiration. She wants Champions League football at 26 years-old and she is a crucial part in her career. She helped them win promotion in 2022 and has made 131 senior appearances in all competitions ranking third among WSL-era players.
London City Lionesses
Danielle van de Donk- Netherlands international moves between two clubs with the same owner in a massive coup for the newly promoted side. She swapped from one Michele Kang club to another to the newly promoted side, this instantly proves the high expectations London City have for their players, especially those who helped with their promotion and now been forced out as a free agent.
Brighton
Li Mengwen has moved from West Ham to Brighton. She has played for clubs like PSG.
Moeka Minami from Roma to Brighton. The Brighton head coach, Dario Vidosic, says: 'It’s great to welcome Moeka to the club. She has vast experience both for her country and in Europe with Roma.Two-time Serie A winner, 61 caps for Japan, consistent European and World Cup performer.
Chiamaka Nnadozie—She arrives fresh from a standout performance in the 2025 Coupe de France Féminine final, where she saved two penalties against PSG to secure the title. Paris FC; 2025 Coupe de France winner with two penalty saves. CAF Goalkeeper of the Year (2023, 2024), World Cup clean sheet at 19, elite penalty stopper with continental honours.
Spurs
Toko Koga moved from Feyenoord to Tottenham Hotspur. The 19-year-old Japan international has agreed to a deal that will run until June 2029. She is am emerging Japanese playmaker who excelled in the Eredivisie and now brings technical flar and young investment to Spurs.
West Ham
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- Kirstie Mewitt's biggest disappointment signing- Seen as a big-name move but so far considered underwhelming by fans. The American will need to make a strong start to win over critics. She could retire about just giving birth which would be more logical.
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