Chelsea Confirm Late Signing of Goalkeeper Femke Liefting | Chelsea Transfer News
Chelsea Confirm Deadline Day Signing of 20-Year-Old Dutch Goalkeeper Femke Liefting
Chelsea have officially announced the signing of Femke Liefting, a promising 20-year-old goalkeeper from AZ Alkmaar, on deadline day. The Dutch shot-stopper has signed a three-and-a-half-year contract, committing to the club until the end of the 2028/29 season.
Liefting becomes Chelsea’s second signing of the January transfer window, following the high-profile world-record acquisition of American defender Naomi Girma. Meanwhile, speculation continues to swirl around Chelsea’s pursuit of England midfielder Keira Walsh, with no official confirmation yet.
The young Dutch goalkeeper has been making waves in the football world with her stellar performances at both club and international levels. Having already accumulated over 50 senior appearances in the Dutch league, Liefting brings a wealth of experience despite her young age.
Chelsea’s head of women’s football, Paul Green, expressed his excitement about the signing, stating:
“Femke is an exciting goalkeeper whom we have been tracking over the last few years. She has vast experience for a player of her age, with over 50 senior appearances in the Dutch league already, to go alongside an illustrious career so far with the Dutch youth national teams. We look forward to seeing her development continue in the upcoming years.”
Femke Liefting’s International Success
Liefting has also enjoyed international success with the Netherlands’ youth teams. She has represented the Dutch national team at the U17, U19, and U20 levels.
Her standout performances at the 2024 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup caught the attention of top European clubs. She played a crucial role in the quarter-finals against host nation Colombia, making two vital penalty saves to help the Netherlands secure victory.
This exceptional display of goalkeeping has earned her call-ups to the senior Netherlands squad, signaling her rapid rise in international football.
“It is really amazing. I am so proud. It is just such a big club. I’m really honoured to be here,” said Femke Liefting in her first official interview as a Chelsea player.
Liefting’s arrival at Chelsea follows a busy January transfer window for the Blues. Earlier in the month, Chelsea completed the world-record signing of American defender Naomi Girma, reinforcing their defensive ranks.
The club is also reportedly in advanced discussions with Barcelona regarding a move for Keira Walsh. The England international midfielder has been linked with a transfer to WSL champions Chelsea, but no official confirmation has been made yet.
With the addition of Liefting, Chelsea’s goalkeeping department gains a young and talented option. The club already boasts experienced shot-stoppers, and Liefting’s arrival adds depth to an already formidable squad.
Chelsea is known for investing in young talent, and Liefting fits the profile of a player who could develop into one of the world’s top goalkeepers. Under the guidance of Chelsea’s experienced coaching staff, she will have the opportunity to refine her skills and contribute to the club’s future success.
As Liefting settles into life at Cobham, she will aim to integrate quickly into Chelsea’s squad. Given her impressive record, it is expected that she will provide strong competition in the goalkeeping department.
Chelsea continues to dominate in the WSL, and the addition of Femke Liefting strengthens their long-term vision. With her contract running until 2028/29, the club has shown faith in her potential.
While Liefting’s signing has been officially confirmed, all eyes remain on Chelsea regarding the Keira Walsh transfer saga. According to 90min, clubs that filed a deal sheet before the transfer window closed can still announce signings at a later stage.
Fans will be eagerly awaiting any further updates from Chelsea as they wrap up their January transfer business.
Conclusion
The signing of Femke Liefting represents another smart move by Chelsea, adding a talented and promising goalkeeper to their squad. With an impressive youth international career and experience at the senior level, she has all the attributes needed to succeed in the WSL.
As Chelsea continues to build for the future, Liefting’s development will be closely watched. The club’s commitment to signing top young talent ensures their position as a dominant force in women’s football.