The first £1m transfer in women’s football has been completed with Arsenal completing the formalities to sign Canadian forward Olivia Smith from Liverpool. The European champions move to sign the 20-year-old, who has become the first to break the seven-figure barrier, eclipses the £900,000 that Chelsea paid to acquire American defender Naomi Girma from San Diego Wave in January.
The first player in men’s football to command a million-pound price tag was former England forward Trevor Francis when he moved from Birmingham City to Nottingham Forest in 1979. But the figure seemed too far before Arsenal made the record signing.
“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,” Smith said in a statement.
Smith who is known for her versatility had a wonderful time at Liverpool even though the club struggled last season. Capable of playing up front or in the wing, she netted nine goals to claim the club player of the season. Though Liverpool were not keen on the transfer, Arsenal eventually succeeded after placing a record bid, with which the Reds are looking to strengthen their squad after a seventh-place finish last season.
Arsenal, bolstered by the Champions League title, are going strength-to-strength and their signing of Smith is seen as a clear signal to send a loud message that they want to dominate the league. Arsenal’s director of women’s football, Clare Wheatley, said: “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.”
Arsenal’s faith in Smith isn’t misplaced. After becoming the youngest to represent Canada at 15, Smith moved to Sporting Lisbon in 2023, where she scored 16 goals in 28 games. Post her success in Portugal, she moved to Liverpool before Arsenal set their sights on her. “It’s a privilege and an honor to sign for Arsenal. The atmosphere the supporters create at Emirates Stadium is incredible and I can’t wait to have that behind me now,” she said.
Apart from Smith, Arsenal which is the most decorated club in English women’s football, have also signed winger Chloe Kelly from, Taylor Hinds and Anneke Borbe – all on free transfers ahead of the new season.
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