The Women’s Super League (WSL) summer transfer window opens today (Monday), with teams able to begin signing players for the 2024-25 season, which will start on September 21. The window closes a week before that, on September 13.
Short-term contracts still dominate the women’s game, leading to a higher number of incomings and outgoings, particularly among smaller clubs. At the top of the table, however, players are increasingly moving for transfer fees, which makes negotiations more protracted.
Manchester City look set to be the busiest team, largely because they need to be. Gareth Taylor’s side, who were pipped to the title on goal difference last season, had a smaller squad than rivals Chelsea and Arsenal.
Previously announced outgoings mean they are down to 18 players, two of whom are recovering from anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. If they are to compete in the Champions League as well as domestically, they will need to make additions this summer. They will be doing so without a director of football, with Nils Nielsen stepping down after 13 months in the role as he pursues a return to coaching.
Steph Houghton’s retirement, Demi Stokes’ departure and Esme Morgan’s move to the Washington Spirit mean they have lost three defenders, although none were…
