Angel City forward and USWNT winger, Alyssa Thompson, is set to transfer to Chelsea Football Club on the final day of the transfer window. A verbal agreement for a sum under £1 million has been reached, as reported by The Athletic. Sources in the U.S. have confirmed to CBS Sports that Thompson`s move is imminent, though the final transfer fee has not yet been solidified.
The anticipated sum of $1.3 million would make Thompson one of the most expensive transfers in the history of women`s football. Recently, NWSL champions, Orlando Pride, set a new record of $1.5 million with the acquisition of Lizbeth Jacqueline Ovalle from Tigres Femenil (Liga MX Femenil).
The 20-year-old U.S. international had earlier this year signed a new contract with Angel City until 2028, alongside her sister, defender Gisele Thompson. Upon official confirmation, the rising star awaits a five-year contract with Chelsea. Thompson first made it into the main roster of the USWNT during the 2023 FIFA Women`s World Cup. She has already completed her medical examination and is prepared to join Chelsea, the WSL champions, for the upcoming season.
The attention surrounding this transfer is significant for the global market, as player valuations and transfer fees continue to rise. This move also underscores the increasing financial strength of leading NWSL and European clubs, and their ability to attract top talent from various leagues. Thompson`s arrival at Chelsea will further bolster their already formidable attacking lineup.
While Chelsea striker Mayra Ramirez is recovering from hamstring surgery, Sam Kerr is back to full fitness following an ACL injury. Other attacking players for Chelsea include Lauren James, Guro Reiten, Aggie Beaver Jones, and Johanna Rytting Kaneryd. This transfer will also allow Thompson to reunite with her USWNT teammates, Catarina Macario and Naomi Girma.
Although Thompson`s departure is a blow to Angel City`s playoff aspirations, the potentially substantial transfer fee could provide resources for future high-profile acquisitions.
