A noteworthy trend has emerged in women’s soccer, highlighted by a FIFA report revealing that international transfers reached a staggering $15.6 million in 2024, surpassing previous records set in 2023. This upward trajectory began the new year with a landmark transfer fee: USWNT defender Naomi Girma made headlines with a world-record fee of $1.1 million as she joined Chelsea in January.
Transfer Grades for 2025 Summer
Below, we provide an overview of major summer transfers in women’s soccer, listed chronologically and organized by transfer fee.
July 1 Transfers
Jill Roord – Undisclosed
From: Man City (Grade: D)
To: FC Twente (Grade: A)
In an unexpected turn, Roord sought a return to the Netherlands despite having a year remaining on her contract. City will feel her absence significantly, while Twente gains a key player as they bolster their roster for Champions League aspirations.
Marie-Antoinette Katoto – Free
From: PSG (Grade: C)
To: OL Lyonnes (Grade: A)
Katoto’s departure is a substantial loss for PSG, particularly as she joins direct rivals OL Lyonnes. This transfer underscores PSG’s ongoing struggle to retain top talent and maintain competitiveness within the league.
Jule Brand – Free
From: Wolfsburg (Grade: D)
To: OL Lyonnes (Grade: A)
The young and dynamic winger, Brand, is set to join Lyonnes, further strengthening their squad. Wolfsburg, having already lost several key players, will find this loss particularly impactful.
Daniëlle van de Donk – Free
From: OL Lyonnes (Grade: B)
To: London City Lionesses (Grade: A)
Van de Donk returns to England after four years in France. Her experience will be invaluable for London City Lionesses as they navigate the competitive WSL landscape.
Ingrid Engen – Free
From: Barcelona (Grade: B)
To: OL Lyonnes (Grade: A-)
Engen’s versatility will be a fantastic asset for Lyonnes, filling a gap left by Van de Donk’s departure. Despite her strong showing as a center-back last season, her lack of playtime at Barcelona made this move anticipated.
Sara Däbritz – Free
From: OL Lyonnes (Grade: B)
To: Real Madrid (Grade: A)
Real Madrid gains a skilled professional, bolstering their roster as they aim to compete with Barcelona. For Lyonnes, Däbritz’s exit aligns with their strategy to invest in younger talent.
Olga Carmona – Free
From: Real Madrid (Grade: B)
To: PSG (Grade: B)
Carmona’s move sees her leave as a former captain, joining a Champions League rival. While this transfer appears beneficial for her career, it reflects a broader trend of both clubs struggling to maintain top talent.
Lina Hurtig – Free
From: Arsenal (Grade: A)
To: Fiorentina (Grade: A)
Hurtig’s move away from Arsenal, where she faced difficulties, sees her joining Fiorentina as they seek to enhance their squad with proven winners.
Laia Aleixandri – Free
From: Man City (Grade: C-)
To: Barcelona (Grade: A)
A key player for City, Aleixandri’s departure marks another significant loss as she joins Barcelona, who are looking to strengthen their team after recent adjustments.
June 22 Transfers
Iman Beney – Undisclosed
From: BSC YB Frauen (Grade: B-)
To: Man City (Grade: A-)
This promising young player makes an exciting transition to City after recovery from injury. Her addition will provide depth and energy to the squad.
June 18 Transfers
Jade Rose – Undisclosed
From: Harvard University (Grade: C)
To: Man City (Grade: A+)
Rose’s successful transition from university to City highlights her potential as a young defender, addressing City’s defensive needs effectively.
Livia Peng – Undisclosed
From: Werder Bremen (Grade: B)
To: Chelsea (Grade: C)
As Chelsea aims to cultivate young talent, Peng’s fit within the squad remains questionable due to competition for positions.
Mara Alber – Undisclosed
From: Hoffenheim (Grade: B-)
To: Chelsea (Grade: B)
Alber represents a promising investment as Chelsea focuses on future talent, though immediate playing time might be limited.
