4 weeks ago
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Olivia Smith has become the most expensive player in women's soccer by leaving Liverpool for Arsenal.
The Gunners have paid Liverpool £1 million ($1.34 million) for Smith, making it the most expensive transfer in the history of the women's game. The 20-year-old forward has signed a long-term contract with Arsenal and will wear the No. 15 shirt.
Smith, who represents Canada at international level, played college soccer in the United States for Penn State before signing her first professional contract in Europe with Portuguese outfit Sporting Lisbon. She went on to score 16 golas in 28 games during the 2023-24 season to win the league's Player of the Season and Young Player of the Season awards.
Smith joined Liverpool a year ago and scored nine goals during her debut Women's Super League campaign to be named as the club's Player of the Season. The Reds will now need to find a replacement for the record-breaking youngster.
Transfer fees in the women's game have skyrocketed in recent years, with the three most expensive moves in history all happening since the start of last year.
The previous record transfer in women's soccer was Naomi Girma's move from San Diego Wave to Chelsea in January, costing the Blues $1.1 million. That was the first deal to break the $1M barrier.
Smith said: "It’s a privilege and an honour to sign for Arsenal. It’s my dream to compete for the biggest titles here in England and in Europe and I’m excited to get started and contribute to doing that here with Arsenal.
"The atmosphere the supporters create at Emirates Stadium is incredible and I can’t wait to have that behind me now."
Arsenal finished second in the Women's Super League last season, a whopping 23 points ahead of mid-table Liverpool in seventh.
The Gunners are the reigning European champions, having beaten Barcelona 1-0 in the Women's Champions League final in May.
Clare Wheatley, who is Arsenal's director of women's football, added: "We’re thrilled to bring Olivia to Arsenal.
"She’s one of the most talented young players in the game and has huge potential for further development here at the club. On behalf of everyone at Arsenal, I’d like to welcome Olivia to Arsenal and congratulate her on this special moment."
Arsenal's head coach Renee Slegers continued: "Olivia is an exciting young player and we believe she can make a big contribution here at Arsenal.
"We’ve been impressed by her mentality and character, excelling in two European leagues at such a young age. I know she has a level of ambition that matches our own and we’re looking forward to working with her as she continues to grow at the club."
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