Investment in Women’s Football
In 2024, a landmark investment of $15.6 million was allocated for international women’s football transfers, as detailed in a recent FIFA report, marking a significant leap from the previous year’s expenditure. Kicking off 2025, a world-record transfer fee of $1.1 million was recorded when Naomi Girma, a prominent defender for the US Women’s National Team, made her move to Chelsea in January, further highlighting the evolving landscape of women’s soccer.
Transfer Market Overview
The transfer market this summer saw notable activity, and we’re breaking down grades for these significant player moves in chronological order, along with their transfer prices.
Player Transfer Grades
- FC Twente: A – A surprising twist unfolded as midfielder Roord made the decision to return to the Netherlands just a year shy of her contract’s expiration. Her exit signals a substantial loss for Manchester City, but Twente has gained a valuable asset as they prepare for domestic and European challenges.
- PSG: C – OL Lyonnes added to their roster at Paris Saint-Germain’s expense, acquiring star striker Katoto on a free transfer. This change could impact PSG’s competitive edge, especially after previously securing Diani from Paris. The financial and strategic disparity between the two clubs raises questions about PSG’s handling of player retention.
- Wolfsburg: D – After losing key players, Wolfsburg finds themselves in a transitional phase, with Brand’s move to OL Lyonnes marking a critical loss.
- London City Lionesses: A – The acquisition of the seasoned 33-year-old player coming from Lyon gives London City a wealth of experience as they prepare for their inaugural season in the WSL. This move allows OL Lyonnes to rejuvenate their squad by promoting younger talent.
- Barcelona: B – With the return of Mapi Leon from injury, Engen’s role became limited, leading to her departure from Barcelona. While the club faced challenges negotiating a fee with OL Lyonnes, this exit allows Engen to fill a vital position in France under coach Giráldez.
- Real Madrid: A – Bringing in a veteran player like Däbritz could provide Real Madrid with the championship experience needed to contend with Barcelona. Simultaneously, OL Lyonnes is focusing on youth by letting go of their aging stars.
- PSG: B – The departure of Real Madrid’s former captain marks a strategic move, yet it could pose performance challenges for both teams in the Champions League, reflecting the ongoing rivalry and competition for retaining top talent.
- Arsenal: A – Hurtig’s departure from Arsenal was anticipated, as her inconsistency prompted the club to not extend her contract. On the other hand, Fiorentina benefits from adding a Champions League-winning player to their ranks.
- Man City: C- – The loss of a versatile player like Aleixandri will be challenging for City, with her leadership role during a period of transition now a significant gap to fill.
- Man City: A – The signing of young talent Beney comes as an optimistic venture for City, enhancing their forward lineup as she recovers from an ACL injury, while also providing much-needed financial assistance to her former club.
- Chelsea: C – The Blue’s vision for nurturing young talent raises concerns for Peng’s immediate future on the pitch, as competition for the starting goalkeeper role intensifies.
- Chelsea: B – Engaging a promising player like Alber for the long term fits Chelsea’s strategy, but a loan to ensure her development could be beneficial before she breaks through into the first team.
Conclusion
Overall, the recent transfer window reveals shifts in dynamics, with clubs like OL Lyonnes capitalizing on rivals’ weaknesses, while others strive to build or maintain competitive squads amid rising investments in the women’s game.
