The Women’s Super League Transfer Window
The Women’s Super League (WSL) opened its transfer window on June 18, ahead of the rest of Europe, which begins on July 1. This early opening has set the stage for exciting player movements, with several significant transfers already confirmed.
Notable Transfers
One of the most notable signings is that of Kadidiatou Diani, who has been a leading force for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and is regarded as one of the best strikers in the sport. The 25-year-old boasts an impressive record of 156 goal contributions from 136 league matches with PSG, maintaining a high scoring rate of over 15 goals in five of her seven seasons in France, and hitting the 20-goal mark three times.
Her ability to find quality scoring opportunities is highlighted by her substantial expected goals (xG) differential of over 16 over the past three league seasons, averaging nearly seven touches within the opponent’s penalty area per match. Diani’s diverse scoring ability, from close-range finishes to headers and long-range strikes, along with her expert positioning and hold-up play, enhances Lyon’s already formidable attacking setup while simultaneously weakening PSG, as they have lost two crucial forwards to Lyon in recent seasons.
Another promising movement includes the transfer of Lina Brand, who is among the ten players departing Wolfsburg this summer. The 21-year-old winger has already carved out a reputation as a prodigy in European football, with a remarkable goal contribution ratio averaging once every two games over five seasons in Germany. Her capacity to drive the ball toward the opposition and create chances is underscored by her six dribbles per game, placing her among the elite wingers in Europe.
Despite often starting from a wide position, Brand excelled at carrying the ball into the attacking third, increasing her number of forward carries significantly last season. Joining Lyon could be advantageous for her, adding depth to a high-speed transition game.
Meanwhile, Chelsea’s recruitment efforts have gained momentum with the addition of prospect Amira Alber, who previously showcased her talent at Hoffenheim. Alber drew attention during Germany’s U17 World Cup run in 2022, where she scored twice and assisted three times. Last season, despite an ankle injury limiting her play, she finished with a tally of six goals and five assists in various attacking roles.
Alber excels at creating opportunities and has demonstrated her versatility across the front line. Her ability to act as a passing outlet and break through defensive ranks should complement Chelsea’s tactical flexibility.
Bayern Munich has made a strategic signing in the form of defender Selina Gilles, formerly of OL Lyonnes, who had been a cornerstone of their defense last season. Gilles played the most minutes of any outfield player at Lyon, partnering effectively with Wendie Renard to minimize goals conceded to just seven across the league.
Her defensive prowess is reflected in a tackle success rate of 78.6%, placing her among the top defenders in France. With Gilles on board, Bayern’s new head coach, José Barcala, gains robust defensive options to adapt to diverse playing styles.
Lastly, Brighton made headlines by securing Minami, a center-back from Roma, for a fee of €100,000, addressing their need for defensive strength after a season marked by conceding numerous goals. Minami’s experience as a ball-playing defender is evident from her possessing the highest percentage of touches within her team last season and her substantial completion rate for progressive passes.
Her defensive acumen is reflected in her record of 80 clearances, the most for Roma, which positions her as a key player capable of stabilizing Brighton’s backline moving forward.
