Olivia Smith: Top 10 most expensive transfers in Women’s football
Olivia Smith signs for Arsenal Women in record transfer
In a historic moment for women’s football, Canadian teenager Olivia Smith has signed for Arsenal in a world-record £1 million move from Liverpool. Her transfer signals a major shift in valuation and investment in the women’s game. Here’s a look at the top 10 most expensive female football transfers ranked by fee.
1. Olivia Smith – £1 million (Liverpool to Arsenal, 2025)
Olivia Smith’s move to Arsenal marks a new chapter in the evolution of women’s football. At just 19, she has shattered records with her £1 million switch from Liverpool, making her the most expensive female footballer in history.
Arsenal’s investment underscores their ambition to dominate both domestically and in Europe. Smith’s flair, speed, and technical ability make her a key player for the future.
2. Racheal Kundananji – £735,000 (Madrid CFF to Bay FC, 2024)
Bay FC broke the NWSL record by signing Zambia’s Racheal Kundananji for £735,000. The powerful striker’s World Cup performance caught global attention, and Bay FC wasted no time in securing her signature.
Kundananji’s deal represents a landmark for African women in football, proving that talent from the continent commands top dollar on the global stage.
3. Keira Walsh – £400,000 (Manchester City to Barcelona, 2022)
Keira Walsh’s £400,000 transfer to Barcelona was a statement signing after England’s Euro 2022 triumph. Her technical quality and tactical intelligence make her indispensable in midfield.
Her move was a breakthrough moment for English talent abroad and reinforced Barcelona’s dominance in the women’s game.
4. Jill Roord – £300,000 (Wolfsburg to Manchester City, 2023)
Jill Roord returned to the WSL in a big-money transfer from Wolfsburg to Manchester City. With a £300,000 price tag, she became a key part of City’s rebuild and push for titles.
The Dutch international brought experience and a knack for scoring from midfield, vital assets for any title-contending side.
5. Pernille Harder – £250,000 (Wolfsburg to Chelsea, 2020)
Chelsea paid a record fee at the time to sign Pernille Harder. Her reputation as one of the world’s best was well-earned, and she immediately helped Chelsea dominate the WSL.
Harder’s impact extended beyond goals, her leadership and drive changed the mentality at Chelsea and influenced young talents in the squad.
6. Geyse Ferreira – £250,000 (Madrid CFF to Barcelona, 2022)
Barcelona added Brazilian forward Geyse Ferreira to their ranks in 2022 with a £250,000 move from Madrid CFF. Her direct style, creativity, and flair brought a new dimension to the attack.
Geyse was brought in to fill the attacking void after several key departures and helped maintain the club’s high-scoring reputation.
READ ALSO
Olivia Smith joins Arsenal Women in world-record £1M transfer from Liverpool
Five important transfer market rules every football fan must know
7. Beth England – £250,000 (Chelsea to Tottenham, 2023)
Beth England became the most expensive British female player after her £250,000 transfer to Tottenham. Her arrival was a huge boost for Spurs, looking to climb the WSL rankings.
England brought with her a proven goal-scoring record and valuable experience in title-winning squads.
8. Ramona Bachmann – £200,000 (Wolfsburg to PSG, 2020)
Swiss forward Ramona Bachmann was one of PSG’s key signings in 2020. Her £200,000 move from Wolfsburg added depth and skill to the Parisian club’s attacking unit.
Bachmann’s versatility and flair allowed her to thrive in multiple roles, becoming a fan favorite at the Parc des Princes.
9. Kadidiatou Diani – £200,000 (PSG to Lyon, 2023)
Kadidiatou Diani made a bold switch from PSG to rivals Lyon in 2023. Her £200,000 transfer stunned many, especially given the intensity of the rivalry.
Known for her speed and dribbling, Diani added explosive power to Lyon’s already dominant squad.
10. Kosovare Asllani – £150,000 (Linköpings FC to Real Madrid, 2020)
Kosovare Asllani was a trailblazer for Real Madrid Femenino when she signed in 2020. The Swedish international cost £150,000, laying the foundation for the club’s long-term vision in women’s football.
Her leadership and star power helped put Madrid on the map as a serious competitor in Spain and Europe.
The rise in transfer fees, highlighted by Olivia Smith’s £1 million move, reflects how far women’s football has come in terms of market value and global recognition. As clubs invest more in elite talent, the transfer market will continue to set new benchmarks and bring greater attention to the women’s game.
