Olympic soccer star Naomi Girma is taking her skills across the pond after signing a record-breaking deal to play four years at the Chelsea Women football club in England, becoming the first woman to cross the million-dollar threshold in the sport.
Girma, 24, is considered the best defender in the U.S. and has spent the last two years in the National Women’s Soccer League, where she was the first overall draft pick by the San Diego Wave. The California native was brought onto the pitch in Chelsea’s match against Arsenal Women on Sunday to announce that the $1.1 million transfer deal had been finalized.
Though the number may seem small when compared to deals made in men’s sports, it is groundbreaking in women’s soccer.
Girma said in the team’s press release that it was an “easy choice” and she was excited to play with the club.
“There are a lot of things about Chelsea that made me want to come here — the culture, the winning mentality, staff and players,” Girma said. “It’s a top environment to learn and grow in.”
Chelsea is also the former home of Emma Hayes, the new head coach of the U.S. women’s national soccer team. Hayes worked with Girma extensively over the summer as the women’s team won its first Olympic gold medal in 12 years.
Paul Green, the current Chelsea coach, described Girma as a world-class defender who proved her athleticism on the international stage.
“She is undoubtedly ready for this next step in her career and we are delighted it will be with Chelsea,” Green said in the team release.
Girma is leaving the San Diego Wave after her fellow U.S. star Alex Morgan’s retirement and a tumultuous year for the relatively new team.
The Wave had a brilliant first year in 2022 as an NWSL expansion team. Girma was part of the squad when it won the league’s Shield trophy in 2023, given to the team with the best record during the regular season.
But in October, a group of former players sued both the Wave and the NWSL alleging that the team engaged in discrimination, sexual harassment, retaliation and wrongful termination. The Wave declined to comment to The Associated Press on the suit, citing the ongoing legal battle.
Jill Ellis, the Wave’s president, left the team in December to join FIFA as the chief football officer.
The team also had a change in coaching as former head coach Casey Stoney left the team in June. She was replaced with Landon Donovan, a former U.S. men’s soccer star.
Donovan would not stay on with the team, and it was recently announced that former Arsenal Women coach Jonas Eidevall would lead the Wave. Eidevall had success in the Swedish women’s league, but it appears he struggled with Arsenal.
ESPN reported in October that he left the women’s club after losing the support of the players and fans.
Camille Ashton, the Wave’s general manager, praised Girma for her contributions to the team over the past two years in the Wave’s press release on the transfer deal. Despite the loss of Girma, Ashton said the team would continue to build a roster that could compete for championships.
“While it’s difficult to part ways with a player of Naomi’s caliber, we are incredibly proud of all she has achieved during her time with us,” Ashton said. “She has set a high standard here, and we wish her nothing but success as she continues her career overseas.”
Girma’s own statement was effusive about her time on the Wave, saying the team would hold a special place in her heart.
“I’ll forever be thankful for the opportunities I’ve had to grow here and for the incredible relationships I’ve built with my teammates, the sporting staff, and our amazing fans,” Girma said. “I’m especially grateful to ownership and Cami for supporting my dream of playing in Europe.”
She also posted a goodbye to her Instagram on Sunday, thanking the Wave’s management and her teammates for their part in her development as a player. Girma commended fans of the Wave for creating an incredible atmosphere at the team’s home games.
“Your unwavering support is what makes being a part of this club so special,” Girma wrote.
In a historic milestone for women’s soccer, Olympic star Naomi Girma has become the first million-dollar player in the sport. The talented defender, who recently helped lead Team USA to a gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics, has signed a lucrative contract that has shattered previous records for women’s soccer salaries.
Girma’s incredible skill, determination, and leadership on the field have earned her this groundbreaking achievement, as she continues to break barriers and pave the way for future generations of female athletes. Her success is not only a testament to her own hard work and dedication, but also a reflection of the growing recognition and support for women’s sports around the world.
As the first million-dollar player in women’s soccer, Naomi Girma is a trailblazer and a role model for aspiring athletes everywhere. Her success serves as a reminder of the incredible talent and potential that exists within women’s sports, and the limitless possibilities that lie ahead for the future of the game. Congratulations to Naomi Girma on this historic achievement!
Chelsea is delighted to announce the arrival of Naomi Girma, with the talented defender joining the Blues from San Diego Wave.
The 24-year-old American international has put pen to paper on a four-and-a-half-year deal, and will bring a wealth of top-level experience to London as she embarks on the next chapter of her career.
Upon joining the Blues, Girma said: ‘I’m so happy and really excited to be here. It doesn’t feel real.
‘There are a lot of things about Chelsea that made me want to come here – the culture, the winning mentality, staff and players. It’s a top environment to learn and grow in.
‘Right now, that’s what I’m looking to do. It was an easy choice for me.’
Head of women’s football Paul Green added: ‘Naomi is a world-class defender who is now coming into the prime years of her career.
Her composure on the ball, ability to read the game coupled with her pace and athleticism will add top quality to an already very talented squad.
‘Naomi has showcased her talent in the NWSL winning various individual awards and delivered on the international stage for the USA, including this summer winning a gold medal at the Olympics.
She is undoubtedly ready for this next step in her career and we are delighted it will be with Chelsea.’
Our new No.16 arrives at Chelsea with a glittering CV. The defender has experienced domestic and international success, triumphing with San Diego Wave and the US national team.
This summer was one to remember for Girma as she played every minute at the 2024 Olympics as the USA, led by former Blues manager Emma Hayes, won gold.
That success came after she was named the US Soccer’s Female Player of the Year in 2023, during which she was a standout performer for her country at the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
The 44-cap international began her senior career at Stamford University, where she played alongside Chelsea forward Catarina Macario. In 2019, Girma captained the college side to the Women’s College Cup.
In 2022, she was the first pick of the NWSL draft when selected by newly-formed club San Diego Wave. She backed that up by being named Rookie of the Year in her first season and by winning the NWSL Defender of the Year award.
The accolades, both individually and collectively, kept coming during Girma’s second campaign as she played a vital part in her club’s NWSL Shield triumph and she was once again named NWSL Defender of the Year for 2023.
Girma was nominated for The Best FIFA Women’s Player award in 2024 and was named in The Best FIFA Women’s XI.
Everyone at Chelsea is thrilled to welcome Naomi to the club, and we look forward to seeing her excel in Chelsea blue!
We are thrilled to announce the signing of Naomi Girma to Chelsea Football Club! The talented defender joins our squad with an impressive track record and we are excited to see her bring her skills to the pitch.
Naomi Girma is a highly regarded player, known for her strong defensive abilities and leadership on the field. We believe she will be a valuable addition to our team and help us achieve success in the upcoming season.
Join us in welcoming Naomi to Chelsea as we look forward to seeing her in action. Stay tuned for updates on her progress and contributions to the team.
Welcome to Chelsea, Naomi Girma! #ChelseaFC #WelcomeNaomiGirma #NewSigning.
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Upon joining, ahead of the game against Arsenal, she told the club website: “I’m so happy and really excited to be here. It doesn’t feel real. There are a lot of things about Chelsea that made me want to come here — the culture, the winning mentality, staff and players. It’s a top environment to learn and grow in. Right now, that’s what I’m looking to do. It was an easy choice for me.”
So, how did this mega-deal come about? Tom Hamilton, Emily Keogh and Jeff Carlisle analyse the biggest transfer in women’s soccer.
A long-standing interest
Chelsea had long-standing interest in signing Girma, and former Chelsea boss and current USWNT head coach Emma Hayes is on record as saying she is the “the best defender I’ve ever seen.” But while the club never made a move while Hayes was in charge, they saw an opportunity to pounce during this window and took it.
Following Kadeisha Buchanan‘s ACL injury, Chelsea were looking to bolster their resources at centre-back. For a team who are dominating the Women’s Super League (WSL) under new boss Sonia Bompastor (with 10 wins and one draw from 11 games — and a six-point lead at the top of the table) it might seem odd to splash so much money on one player, but Girma is only 24 years old and has the potential to be a cornerstone of this Chelsea team for the next decade, while also stepping in as a long-term replacement for 31-year-old club-legend Millie Bright.
The Blues will make Girma one of the highest-paid players in the WSL and that is why they were able to beat off competition for her signature from both Arsenal and Lyon. A source told ESPN that one of the reasons Arsenal backed out of the deal was because of her expected wage demands, but the club were also unwilling to break the world record for the transfer fee either. Once Chelsea made it clear they could offer her what she wanted, the rest was simple. — Tom Hamilton
A clear preference amid other offers
Arsenal had also shown a long-standing interest in Girma — ironically under Jonas Eidevall, who is now the coach of the Wave — but when it came down to the final stages of negotiations it never truly felt that they were in serious contention. And when the time came for Girma to make a decision, Arsenal were not among the final candidates, despite their desire to strengthen their defensive options.
According to sources close to the situation, Girma had a clear preference for Chelsea as she considered her next move. She engaged in discussions with key figures who could offer insight, including Hayes, to gather opinions about signing with the West London club. And while Arsenal showed interest throughout the process, Girma’s inclination towards Chelsea was evident from the start.
However, Lyon were a highly competitive option when they entered the race late on. Known for their storied history in women’s football and consistent dominance in Europe (with a record eight UEFA Champions League titles since 2011), the French giants presented an enticing opportunity for Girma to compete at the highest level. With owner Michele Kang’s substantial financial backing, Lyon were also well-equipped to handle the significant transfer fee and wage demands associated with acquiring a player of Girma’s calibre.
In the end, Lyon and Chelsea made bids of $1.1m to sign her, though according to a source close to the negotiations, both clubs were keen to avoid the deal escalating into a full-scale bidding war.
For Lyon, the pursuit was not just about adding another talented defender to their ranks but also about maintaining their reputation as a powerhouse in women’s football and remain competitive in a transfer market that has seen increasing activity in recent years.
Girma, aware of Lyon’s winning pedigree and their unwavering commitment to excellence, undoubtedly saw the club as a viable contender for her next chapter. But she ultimately favoured a move to Chelsea. Despite Lyon’s best efforts, it was always going to be difficult to compete with the personal connection and alignment that Chelsea offered.
A source said that, above all, Girma was drawn to Chelsea’s dynamic and ambitious environment, as well as the opportunity to work under a team with a strong growing dominance in Europe. It was Chelsea’s vision and appeal that aligned more closely with Girma’s personal and professional aspirations. And that’s why she chose them. — Emily Keogh
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Hamilton: Girma to Chelsea the biggest move in women’s football history
Tom Hamilton talks about Naomi Girma’s expected transfer to Chelsea for a world record transfer fee of over $1m.
Why San Diego couldn’t say no
Camille Ashton was brought on board as the Wave’s GM in June 2024, and was immediately faced with a tough pill to swallow. Girma, a mainstay in the team since its inaugural season in 2022, wanted out of San Diego. In fact, Girma had wanted to move as far back as a year ago, six months before Ashton’s hiring.
If this sequence of events sounds familiar, that’s because it is. The word out of San Diego is that Jaedyn Shaw‘s recent departure — in her case via a trade to the North Carolina Courage — followed a similar timeline in terms of communicating her desire to leave and her eventual departure.
That two such prominent players expressed a desire to leave, at minimum, raises eyebrows. The Wave has endured considerable instability over the last six months in the front office, coaching and player ranks. Casey Stoney was fired as manager shortly after Ashton’s arrival. Club icon Alex Morgan announced her retirement in September. Then in December, Jill Ellis resigned as president. Amid all this were multiple lawsuits filed against the team by former employees alleging a toxic work environment, followed by a countersuit by Ellis.
However, Ashton insists that none of this had anything to do with Girma’s desire to leave San Diego and told ESPN: “Any sort of change that’s happened, this desire of [Girma’s] predates any of that [upheaval], so it really doesn’t have anything to do with it.”
But it did leave the Wave in a position where if the right offer came along, it couldn’t say no.
“I think if somebody does not want to be in the organization, not because of anything bad happening, but just because they’re ready for the next chapter or another chapter, I don’t think that that’s ultimately what’s best for the club either to keep them,” Ashton said. “We obviously had conversations, and we did our part … I think you’re better off figuring out how to do right by the player, but also it’s the right decision for the club at that point.”
Girma’s desire to move abroad meant the NWSL teams were out, and limited San Diego’s options in terms of where the player could land. But there were suitors, and Ashton indicated that it was only in the last couple of weeks that discussions accelerated. As noted already, Lyon came in with a competitive offer to match Chelsea, but Girma made her preference clear.
“Chelsea is where she wants to be,” Ashton said. “We also, though, made it clear to [Chelsea] that in order for us to move her we have to make sure that from a business perspective and from a team side that we are getting what we need out of it as well, because she’s obviously a big loss. And we were very clear that if that wasn’t the case then we don’t know if right now would be the window, or if it would be a next window. But she [Girma] really wanted to make a move this window, and ultimately we were able to secure a deal that made such for the club as well.
Some “back and forth” negotiations ensued, but the deal got done. “We landed in a good place that will help the club out as well,” Ashton said.
But that may take some time for San Diego fans to see. Two foundational players in Shaw and Girma are gone and replacing them won’t be easy. Ashton used the word “rebuild” in describing what has taken place in the Wave organization, both on the field and off it.
With the club now looking to move forward, she added: “It’s sort of this opportunity to reshape and to build this new way.” — Jeff Carlisle
A hunger for success
Chelsea have firmly established themselves as the major powerhouse in England, capturing the last five WSL titles under Hayes. And, since Bompastor took over in the summer, the club have continued to thrive, remaining unbeaten in all competitions. The Blues’ recent dominance has solidified their reputation as a global force in women’s football and their ability to attract some of the world’s best players.
Boasting one of the deepest and most talented squads across Europe, Chelsea were already a formidable opponent. However, Girma’s addition takes their defence to an entirely new level. Her arrival provides a crucial boost to a backline that has seen stalwart defender Bright in need of a consistent partner at centre-back.
Persistent injuries and departures have disrupted Chelsea’s defensive rhythm at times, but Girma’s presence offers both stability and world-class quality. With Girma alongside Bright, Chelsea have the potential to establish one of the most impenetrable defensive partnerships in the league, building on an already impressive defensive record that has seen them concede the second-fewest (6) goals this season.
The timing of Girma’s arrival could not be better. With Chelsea competing in the latter stages of the Champions League, battling in two domestic cup competitions, and pushing for an unprecedented sixth consecutive WSL title, squad rotation has become increasingly critical.
Girma’s versatility, composure, and leadership on the pitch will provide Bompastor with yet another world-class option as the season approaches its decisive final six months.
She steps into a team with an unparalleled hunger for success, a squad brimming with talent, and an infrastructure built to challenge for every major honour. For Chelsea, it’s another statement signing that reinforces their status as one of the premier destinations for elite players. — Keogh
Chelsea Football Club made history today by breaking the women’s transfer record to sign talented striker, Girma. The club paid a record-breaking fee to secure the services of the young phenom, showcasing their commitment to investing in women’s football.
Girma, who has been turning heads with her impressive performances on the pitch, is widely regarded as one of the most promising young talents in the women’s game. Her signing is a major coup for Chelsea and signals their ambition to continue competing at the highest level.
The club’s willingness to break the transfer record for Girma demonstrates their belief in her potential and their dedication to strengthening their squad. Fans are buzzing with excitement over the news, and can’t wait to see her in action wearing the Chelsea blue.
With Girma now in the fold, Chelsea’s women’s team is poised to make a serious impact in the upcoming season. Stay tuned for more updates on this groundbreaking signing and the team’s progress as they aim for glory on the pitch. #ChelseaFC #Girma #WomensFootball #TransferRecord
The fee exceeds the previous record of £685,000, when Bay FC signed Racheal Kundananji last February.
Chelsea set the British transfer record in signing Mayra Ramirez for £384,000 in January 2024.
Girma is Chelsea’s first signing of the January transfer window after they fought off competition from Lyon.
Chelsea made her a priority target after losing defender Kadeisha Buchanan to a season-ending knee injury.
Head of women’s football Paul Green said: “Naomi is a world-class defender who is now coming into the prime years of her career.
“Her composure on the ball, ability to read the game, coupled with her pace and athleticism, will add top quality to an already very talented squad.
“She is undoubtedly ready for this next step in her career and we are delighted it will be with Chelsea.”
In 2023 Girma helped San Diego win the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) Shield and was named US Soccer’s female player of the year.
She was part of the USA side that won gold at the 2024 Olympics in Paris.
Chelsea Football Club has made headlines once again with their latest signing of USA defender Naomi Girma for a world record fee. The talented 20-year-old has been making waves in the world of women’s football with her exceptional defensive skills and leadership qualities.
Girma, who previously played for Stanford University in the United States, is considered one of the top young defenders in the game. Her ability to read the game, make crucial tackles, and organize the backline has caught the attention of top clubs around the world.
Chelsea’s decision to break the world record fee for Girma shows their commitment to building a strong and competitive team. With her addition to the squad, the Blues are set to have one of the strongest defensive lines in women’s football.
Fans are eagerly anticipating Girma’s debut in the blue jersey and are excited to see her in action alongside other talented players in the team. Stay tuned for more updates on Girma’s journey with Chelsea as she looks to make a mark on the world stage.
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We have long known that U.S. women’s national team defender Naomi Girma is invaluable.
She has led the San Diego Wave and the U.S. in her stalwart center back role. She has an NCAA championship title, an NWSL Shield, two Defender of the Year awards and an Olympic gold medal.
USWNT head coach Emma Hayes has called her the “best defender” she’s seen. “Ever.”
And now Chelsea Women are putting down a record-breaking investment to bring Girma to their team: a $1.1 million transfer fee, as Meg reported earlier today. The Women’s Super League side has agreed to terms with San Diego, where Girma is under contract until 2026, but her new contract with Chelsea is not yet finalized.
Chelsea previously held the transfer record in 2024 when they signed Colombian striker Mayra Ramirez for more than half a million dollars from Levante in Liga F. That record stood for all of a couple of weeks before Bay FC nearly doubled the price tag, signing Racheal Kundananji and sending a $862,000 transfer fee to Madrid CFF.
Girma was a significant factor for the U.S. in its quest for Olympic gold last summer. But before that, she was the No. 1 pick in the 2022 NWSL Draft, earning Rookie of the Year and her first Defender of the Year title in her first season.
Chelsea weren’t the only ones chasing the 24-year-old. Current French leaders Lyon were also courting Girmaand offered upward of $1 million to San Diego.
What makes a million-dollar defender?
Strikers are measured by their goals, creative midfielders by their assists. Goalkeepers can point to saves and shutouts.
Even with the advancement of metrics like expected goals, expected assists and expected goals prevented, the work of a world-class defender has been far more elusive to illustrate with numbers.
So how do you quantify a talent like Girma, who was one of the few bright spots in a forgettable World Cup for the U.S. and again in 2024 despite the San Diego Wave’s form?
Stats like tackles and interceptions (and saves, for goalkeepers) are more indicative of a team under constant duress than individual quality. But Girma is hard to bypass.
She’s very successful when she attempts a tackle.
She’s crafty with a toe poke.
While her overall passing is stellar — 90.3% accuracy, third-best in the sample — it’s her ability to break lines accurately that’ll make her coveted by clubs of the highest standard.
Throw in her captain’s mentality and affable personality, and it’s no wonder that Girma is Option A for any Champions League contender needing to upgrade in the back.
Meg’s Corner
Girma’s record transfer fee should shock no one
We always knew the $1 million barrier would be broken for women’s football transfer fees sooner rather than later — but you also really shouldn’t be surprised that it’s Naomi Girma setting the record either. Girma’s followed in the footsteps of center backs and leaders before her, like Carla Overbeck and Becky Sauerbrunn, but she’s also shaping the present and future of women’s football on the field and with this transfer fee.
I think it’s worth it to take a beat and contextualize the $1.1 million fee amid the state of transfers across global soccer. While FIFA has yet to release its report for 2024, we can at least look at the mid-year report from last year’s summer window.
$6.4 billion spent on transfer fees in men’s professional soccer.
$6.8 million spent on international transfers in the women’s game. (I’d say “only,” but that’s more than double what was spent in the 2023 mid-year window. Progress!)
Girma’s transfer fee from Chelsea would have been good for about 16% of that window’s total alone — and it’s safe to assume that with this new benchmark, there will be continued exponential growth for international transfers.
NWSL teams have been major players in this market, from Bay FC making their move for Kundananji to Orlando Pride adding NWSL Championship MVP Barbra Banda, but it also still benefits the NWSL that multiple European teams were ready to pony up a cool mil for an American star.
The latest from the “Full Time” podcast: New Canada women’s coach Casey Stoney shares her vision for the team.
EM Dash, Geoff Burke / Imagn Images
Notables
Moves I like
This NWSL offseason marks a new era.
As of last Wednesday, teams can no longer trade players without their consent under the new CBA — negotiated for and ratified by the league, players and clubs last year. Gone are the days of trade windows, rookie drafts and restricted free agency. Deals can happen at any point until October’s roster freeze deadline.
U.S. emerging talent Jaedyn Shaw took full advantage of the rule, completing a trade from the Wave to the North Carolina Courage last week — though she had requested a move (specifically to North Carolina) more than a year ago.
The rule changes have led to quite the active offseason, which calls for another edition of Jeff Rueter’s “Moves I like”:
Shaw to Courage: Shaw clearly sees a role she can own in Sean Nahas’ side. Along with Ashley Sanchez, the pair could be a lethal two-headed creative machine, each capable of taking their shots. She’ll be a welcome addition to a team that just lost former league MVP Kerolin in free agency.
Yazmeen Ryan to Houston Dash: Players with Ryan’s versatility and consistency are in short supply, and having her on a fresh contract bodes well for the Dash’s long-overdue rebuild. I also like that Houston has brought Delanie Sheehan in from free agency, ensuring Ryan’s acclimation is sped up thanks to the pair’s familiarity from their time at Gotham.
Honorable mention: Angel City re-signed two-time World Cup winner Christen Press to a one-year contract extension. The 36-year-old was Angel City’s first-ever signing on its inaugural roster in 2021. The team also recently hired former NWSL head coach Mark Parsons as its general manager.
Naeher wins another award
We are not done celebrating Alyssa Naeher — even if she retired from international soccer in November.
On Saturday, U.S. Soccer named the former women’s national team goalkeeper its Female Player of the Year for 2024. It’s hard to argue with the accolades from her very successful year:
Olympic gold medal
CONCACAF W Gold Cup inaugural champion (saving and taking a penalty kick)
SheBelieves Cup winner
The Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year award
The 36-year-old earned her latest nod thanks to a vote from national team coaches, players, U.S. Soccer board members, the U.S. Soccer Athletes’ Council, NWSL head coaches, fans and select media members and administrators.
Full Time First Looks
Parting message: Former Arsenal and Bay FC defender Jen Beattie is retiring, the 33-year-old announced today. Beattie reflected on her career as she enters a new phase of life, including her World Cup goal at Parc des Princes, sharing her cancer diagnosis in 2020 and the impact of her father’s legacy on her life.
Messy Manchester: Rivalries — at their best — come with intense competition and a bit of chaos. Sunday’s Manchester derby in the WSL was no exception. United leapfrogged City into third place in the standings with a 4-2 victory. The two fierce competitors will meet again tomorrow in the Women’s League Cup. The only question is which side Chloe Kelly will be on amid reports the City forward could be headed to United on a loan.
Staying on: Arsenal has opted for consistency amid change, hiring Renee Slegers as its head coach through the 2025-26 season. Slegers, 35, stepped into the interim role in October, following Jonas Eidevall’s resignation. The Athletic’s Art de Roche explains why Slegers’ ruthlessness made her the perfect choice.
Girma deal marks women’s soccer’s first $1 million transfer. Plus, recent NWSL moves we like
In a groundbreaking move for women’s soccer, defender Naomi Girma has become the first player in the sport’s history to be involved in a $1 million transfer deal. The 21-year-old recently signed with French club Olympique Lyonnais, setting a new standard for the value of female players in the market.
Girma, who previously played for Stanford University and the United States U-20 national team, has been heralded as one of the top young talents in the game. Her move to Lyon not only showcases her talent and potential, but also highlights the growing recognition and investment in women’s soccer worldwide.
In addition to Girma’s historic transfer, there have been several recent moves in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) that we are excited about. From international stars joining the league to promising young talents making their mark, here are a few transfers and signings that have caught our eye:
1. Angelina – The Brazilian midfielder has signed with OL Reign, bringing her creativity and skill to the NWSL.
2. Sam Mewis – The USWNT star has returned to the NWSL with San Diego Wave FC after a successful stint in Europe.
3. Trinity Rodman – The youngest player ever drafted into the NWSL, Rodman has already made a name for herself with the Washington Spirit.
These moves, along with Girma’s groundbreaking transfer, are a testament to the growing strength and visibility of women’s soccer. As the sport continues to evolve and thrive, we look forward to seeing more historic deals and talented players making their mark on the global stage.
• Joined ESPN in 2011 • Covered two Olympics, a pair of Rugby World Cups and two British & Irish Lions tours • Previously rugby editor, and became senior writer in 2018
The transfer fee would see Girma become the first player to break the $1 million mark in the women’s game.
ESPN first reported Chelsea’s interest in Girma last week, with Arsenal and Lyon also keen to sign the United States women’s national team star. ESPN also reported first that this would likely become the first $1m transfer fee in women’s football.
Girma, 24, is understood to have agreed to terms with Chelsea ahead of the move. She was under contract until 2026 with the NWSL franchise, but Chelsea will pay a record fee to secure her services.
Girma is one of the highest-rated defenders of her generation and was instrumental in helping the USWNT achieve gold at the Paris Olympics, with manager Emma Hayes hailing her as “the best defender I’ve ever seen.”
Sonia Bompastor’s Chelsea have been looking to bolster their centre-back options after Canadian defender Kadeisha Buchanan suffered an Anterior Cruciate Ligament injury (ACL).
Sources told ESPN the Wave were keen on a player exchange as part of the deal, and this option was still being explored earlier this week. But Chelsea are set to break the seven-figure mark to bring in one of the world’s best players.
According to sources close to the negotiations, Chelsea FC is nearing a deal worth over $1 million for USWNT star Naomi Girma. The 22-year-old defender has been a standout performer for both club and country, and it seems that Chelsea is eager to secure her services.
Girma, who currently plays for Stanford University, is known for her commanding presence at the back and her ability to read the game well. She has already made a name for herself as one of the top young defenders in the women’s game, and a move to Chelsea would undoubtedly be a significant step in her career.
The deal is said to be in its final stages, with both parties keen to finalize the transfer as soon as possible. Chelsea’s interest in Girma highlights their ambition to strengthen their squad and compete at the highest level in women’s football.
Fans of both Chelsea and the USWNT will be eagerly awaiting official confirmation of the deal, as Girma’s potential arrival at the club would undoubtedly be a major coup for the reigning Women’s Super League champions. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
USA defender Naomi Girma has agreed terms to join Chelsea on a long-term deal for a world record transfer.
The fee is believed to be the most expensive transfer for a female footballer, in the region of £900,000 ($1.1m) and exceeding the £685,000 Bay FC paid for Zambia’s Racheal Kundananji in February 2024.
It would also see the 24-year-old become the first women’s million dollar player.
Women’s Super League champions Chelsea were in a tussle with French giants Lyon for her signature, with Girma widely regarded as one of the best players in the world.
She is set to leave San Diego Wave – now managed by former Arsenal boss Jonas Eidevall – and will become manager Sonia Bompastor’s first January signing at the club.
Girma was a priority target for Chelsea this window having lost centre-back Kadeisha Buchanan to an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.
They currently sit top of the WSL table with a seven-point lead over Arsenal and have qualified for the knockout stages of the Women’s Champions League.
The club signed Levante striker Mayra Ramirez in January last year for a British record £384,000 fee, plus up to £42,600 in add-ons.
Chelsea Football Club is set to make history by signing USA defender Naomi Girma for a world record fee. The talented 20-year-old has been making waves in the women’s soccer world, and Chelsea is ready to secure her services for a reported fee of $50 million.
Girma, who currently plays for Stanford University, is known for her exceptional defensive skills and leadership on the field. She has represented the USA at various youth levels and is widely regarded as one of the most promising young defenders in the game.
Chelsea’s move to sign Girma for a record-breaking fee is a testament to their ambition and commitment to building a strong squad for the future. The club believes that Girma’s addition will bolster their defense and help them compete for top honors in domestic and international competitions.
Fans around the world are buzzing with excitement at the prospect of seeing Girma in Chelsea blue, and they can’t wait to see her in action alongside the likes of Sam Kerr, Fran Kirby, and Pernille Harder.
Stay tuned for more updates on this groundbreaking transfer as Chelsea looks to make history with the signing of Naomi Girma.
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