Canadas Olivia Smith Joins Arsenal Women For World Record Transfer Fee

Published: Thursday, July 17, 2025 at 9:00 am

Canadian Soccer Star Olivia Smith Shatters Transfer Record, Joins Arsenal

In a landmark move for women's soccer, Canadian forward Olivia Smith has joined Arsenal from Liverpool for a world-record transfer fee of $1.3 million. This surpasses the previous record of $1.1 million held by Naomi Girma. Smith, at 20 years old, is now the most expensive female soccer player globally. This transfer also marks the first time in 24 years that a world-record transfer in the women's game has occurred between two clubs from the same country.

Smith, who has signed a four-year contract, expressed her excitement about joining Arsenal, citing her dream of competing for major titles. She previously played for Liverpool, where she impressed in her debut season, starting 24 games and scoring seven league goals. She also became the first Liverpool Women's player to score at Anfield.

This move is particularly significant as Smith, having previously transferred from Sporting Clube de Portugal for $269,000, now holds the record for the highest accumulated transfer fees in women's soccer history, totaling $1.4 million. The transfer fee is four times the previous record for a transfer between two English clubs.

Arsenal's Director of Women's Football, Clare Wheatley, welcomed Smith, highlighting her potential for development. Arsenal's head coach, Rene Slegers, also expressed his excitement about Smith's arrival, emphasizing her ambition and potential to contribute to the team. Smith will wear the number 15 jersey.

BNN's Perspective:

This transfer is a significant milestone for women's soccer, demonstrating the growing financial investment and recognition of the sport. While the high transfer fee is a testament to Smith's talent, it also reflects the increasing commercial value of the women's game. The move between two English clubs is a positive sign for the development of the Women's Super League, and it will be interesting to see how Smith integrates into a squad already packed with international talent.

Keywords: Olivia Smith, Arsenal, Liverpool, Women's Soccer, Transfer Fee, World Record, Canadian Soccer, Women's Super League, Soccer, Sports, Naomi Girma, Football, England, Rene Slegers, Clare Wheatley, Anfield, Emirates Stadium, Canadian National Team

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