The Great Manchester Swap: Jess Park Joins United, Grace Clinton Heads to City

Deadline Day delivered one of the most dramatic twists in WSL history, with two Lionesses switching allegiances across Manchester.

Park Moves to United

Manchester United have confirmed the signing of Jess Park from rivals Manchester City on a four-year deal. The 23-year-old forward was United’s top target after the club reluctantly accepted City’s bid for Grace Clinton earlier in the week.

Park, who scored five goals and added one assist in the WSL last season, already has 20 England caps and was part of the Lionesses squad that lifted Euro 2025 this summer.

Speaking to United’s media channels, Park said:

“I am really happy to be here and can't wait to get started. I wanted to break out of the boundaries and push myself to take on a new challenge… I know the ambitions are very high and I want to help the team push towards them.”

Known for her creativity, direct running, and ability to unlock defences, Park will bring added spark to Marc Skinner’s attacking options as United enter a transitional campaign.

Clinton Heads to City

Meanwhile, Grace Clinton has signed a four-year contract with Manchester City. The 21-year-old midfielder had entered the final year of her deal at United, and the club decided to cash in to avoid another high-profile free departure.

Clinton, who twice earned a place in the PFA WSL Team of the Year — first on loan at Spurs in 2023/24 and again last season with United — was also part of England’s Euro 2025-winning squad.

Speaking after her move, Clinton said:

“City, for me, has always played an amazing style of football. Keeping the ball, it looks lovely, and there are amazing players here. I want to get better and grow and learn things in my career and I think there are amazing people here to learn from.”

Her composure in midfield and technical quality make her a perfect fit for Gareth Taylor’s possession-heavy system.

What It Means

The swap marks a symbolic shift of power in Manchester. United have secured a proven England forward in Park, while City have landed one of the league’s most exciting young midfielders in Clinton. Both players arrive fresh off international success and will add star quality on either side of the city divide.

With United reshaping their squad after key departures in recent years, and City aiming to close the gap on Chelsea and Arsenal, this Deadline Day swap could define the 2025/26 WSL season.