Tottenham Hotspur Women have made a significant addition to their squad by signing Norway international Signe Gaupset for a club-record fee of £378,000. The 20-year-old attacking midfielder will officially join the team on January 1 from SK Brann, her previous club where she played under Spurs head coach Martin Ho from the summer of 2023 until his move to Spurs in July.
This marks the third time this season that Tottenham has set a new transfer record, following investments in defender Toko Koga and striker Cathinka Tandberg earlier in the summer.
During her tenure at Brann, Gaupset excelled, earning the title of player of the year in the Norwegian top flight. In 26 appearances, she scored 15 goals and provided 12 assists, playing a pivotal role in Brann securing their second league title.
“We worked really well together,” Gaupset noted about her relationship with Ho. “He demands a lot, but I like that, I think he can get even more out of me.”
Ho praised Gaupset’s “professionalism, ambition and personality,” stating that she will significantly enhance Spurs’ squad. He expressed pride that she chose to join their project, highlighting her potential as an exciting asset for the Women’s Super League (WSL) club.
Analyzing the Impact of Gaupset’s Signing
Gaupset’s transfer to Tottenham represents more than just a player acquisition; it symbolizes a strategic shift for the club. Her choice to join Spurs, particularly under the guidance of her former coach, underscores her confidence in the direction the team is heading.
Earlier this year, Tottenham faced challenges, narrowly avoiding relegation, but they have since improved dramatically, currently sitting in fifth place in the league and competing effectively with teams like Arsenal.
Gaupset’s signing further validates the decision to hire Ho, who has a proven track record of developing young talent. Her return to work with Ho indicates the positive influence he has and reflects the club’s ambition to secure quality players.
Moreover, choosing to play alongside a familiar coach in a new league could facilitate her integration into the team. It is essential for Ho, especially with the current absence of midfielder Maite Oroz due to a season-ending injury.
Gaupset’s decision to join Spurs, rather than opting for other higher-profile teams, showcases her maturity and long-term vision for growth. Similar to other players who have developed their skills in lesser teams before making significant moves, Gaupset aims to build her career steadily.
The addition of Gaupset not only enhances Spurs’ squad depth but also contributes to the club’s identity as a growing force in women’s football, reflecting ownership’s commitment to developing the women’s project.
