Emily Kage
A FIFA report indicated that spending on international women’s player transfers exceeded expectations, hitting a record $15.6 million in 2025, more than doubling prior figures from 2023.
Below, we outline significant summer transfers for women’s soccer, organized by date and monetary value.
All transfer fees are reported unless marked with an asterisk.
July 2nd
Ellie Carpenter
private
Lyon: C-
Chelsea: B-
Lyon has parted with a seasoned defender, Carpenter, who is just 25. This summer has seen several players leave the squad, indicating a shift towards younger talent as Jonathan Glardes steps in as manager. While Carpenter reunites with former London manager Sonia Bonpasper at Chelsea, her role as a backup to 33-year-old Lucy Bronze could lead to dissatisfaction. This move, while positive for Chelsea, risks disrupting the team dynamics.
Chloe Kelly
free
Man City: D
Arsenal: A
Kelly’s departure from Man City in January after a loan to her childhood friend’s club seemed inevitable as her contract concluded. The fallout from her exit might complicate future signings for City as it marked a decline for a team already struggling with injuries.
July 1st
Ashley Lawrence
private
Chelsea: B
Lyon: A
Lawrence began her tenure in London well but never secured a consistent starting position. With other players departing, her transfer opens up opportunities for more playing time, fitting Lyon’s strategy as they aim to consolidate their strength.
Jill Rude
private
Man City: D
FC Twente: A
Rude’s unexpected request to move to the Netherlands with a year left on her contract presents a significant loss for City. However, Twente benefits from acquiring a skilled midfielder as they aim to enhance their domestic competition.
Marie-Antoinette Katoto
free
PSG: C
OL Lyon: A
Katoto’s move to OL Lyon represents a significant disappointment for PSG, as one of the world’s top strikers joins a rival on a free transfer. This financial misstep continues PSG’s struggle to maintain competitive powers, especially following last season’s acquisition of Diani by Lyon.
Christmas Fire
free
Wolfsburg: D
OL Lyon: A
At just 21, Fire is among Europe’s rising wingers, bringing an offensive edge that OL Lyon can harness. This move, especially as a free transfer, could be beneficial for both player and club.
Daniel van de Donque
free
OL Lyon: B
London City Lioness: A
After several years in France, the 33-year-old returns to the WSL with London City, bringing invaluable experience to the team. Her departure helps OL Lyon recruit younger players, thus refreshing their roster.
Ingrid Engen
free
Barcelona: B
OL Lyon: A-
Engen’s career has mostly been in midfield, but with injuries at Barcelona, she performed admirably at center-back. With the renewal of Leon, Engen’s limited playing time made her departure expected, and she will fill a gap at OL Lyon.
Sara de Blitz
free
OL Lyon: B
Real Madrid: A
Real Madrid has bolstered its squad with a veteran player in Debritz, hoping to improve their competitiveness against Barcelona. Meanwhile, OL Lyon’s strategy appears focused on infusing younger talent into their roster.
Olga Carmona
free
Real Madrid: B
PSG: B
Losing a former captain is a substantial setback for Real Madrid, especially ahead of anticipated competitive fixtures against PSG. Both clubs face challenges in retaining top talent, and Carmona’s new role might not significantly shift her career trajectory.
Lina Harthi
free
Arsenal: A
Fiorentina: A
It was expected that Hurtig’s contract with Arsenal would not be extended, leading her to seek new opportunities. Fiorentina’s acquisition of a promising player strengthens their lineup significantly.
Laia Aleixandri
free
Man City: C-
Barcelona: A
City has lost a key player who emerged as a leader in Alex Greenwood’s absence. Barcelona’s acquisition of Aleixandri is a significant improvement to their roster.
June 22nd
Faith Bene
private
BSC YB Female: B-
Man City: A-
A promising move for young player Bene, who sought recovery after an ACL injury at her previous club. This transfer not only improves City’s squad depth but also provides a promising future for the young talent coming from Switzerland.
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June 18th
Jade Rose
private
Harvard University: C
Man City: A+
As her college career winds down, Rose secured a move to Man City, securing a promising spot in a competitive defense. Her experience with the Canadian national team could pay off, as City seeks to fortify their defensive line.
Libyan Pen
private
Werder Bremen: B
Chelsea: C
Chelsea seems focused on developing young talent, but it’s unclear where Peng fits into their strategy. With stiff competition ahead, her chances for immediate gameplay appear limited, raising questions about her long-term role in the team.
Mara Alber
private
Hoffenheim: B-
Chelsea: B
Another young player within Chelsea’s future plans, Alber will gain experience as she continues her development. Though she faced challenges in her first season, a loan deal may offer her the chance to flourish.
Fan Take: The surge in women’s soccer transfers not only indicates a growing investment in the sport but also raises the stakes for both clubs and players alike. As top talent moves and teams adjust, fans can expect more competitive and exciting matches in the coming seasons.
