Jeff Caschell
Forward Ally Senner from the US Women’s National Team has transferred to the Kansas City side, taking the lead for the Utah Royals in the NWSL.
Utah has secured $600,000 in guaranteed transfer funds, setting a new record for the NWSL.
The team has also confirmed future sales clauses; one insider told ESPN that 20% of any future transfers will go to Utah.
Reports indicate the Royals will not receive any players in return for Senner.
Kansas City has the potential to pay Utah an additional $100,000 based on Senner’s performance.
Kansas City will make payments to Utah over the next several years, assisting in managing finances according to the NWSL net forwarding threshold. Utah will receive $300,000 soon, followed by $200,000 next year and $100,000 in 2027.
According to various sources, Utah was engaged in discussions about trading Senner with multiple NWSL teams this summer.
“I would like to thank the Royals for selecting this small-town girl and providing me the chance to fulfill a lifelong dream of playing professional soccer,” Senner stated. “I appreciate all the opportunities and experiences I’ve had on and off the field.”
Senner has scored four goals in her 12 appearances for the USWNT and was named the 2024 US Young Female Player of the Year.
The Utah Royals selected Senner first overall in the 2024 NWSL Draft, which became the last draft before the league’s new collective bargaining agreement abolished the draft altogether.
So far this season, Senner has one goal and one assist for the Royals, having started all 13 games, although the team has only achieved one win.
Kansas City boasts strong offensive talent, currently leading the NWSL and sitting eight points ahead of the second-place Orlando Pride.
“Aly is an electrifying player who excels on both offense and defense, adding yet another layer of threat to our lineup,” Kansas City head coach Vlatko Andonovski said. “She’s exciting to watch and consistently elevates her game. Allie embodies the mentality we seek and fits perfectly into our culture.”
Kansas City will face Utah on August 8th.
Fan Take: This transfer marks a significant moment for the NWSL, highlighting the growing talent pool within women’s soccer. For fans, an exciting player like Senner joining Kansas City only enhances the competitiveness of the league, promising thrilling matches ahead.
