Chelsea FC Women have secured a landmark deal, signing USA defender Naomi Girma for a world-record transfer fee estimated at £900,000 ($1.1 million). This fee surpasses the £685,000 transfer of Racheal Kundananji to Bay FC in 2024 and marks the first time a female footballer’s transfer has crossed the $1 million threshold.
The 24-year-old, widely regarded as one of the best defenders in the world, chose Chelsea over French giants Lyon in what has been described as one of the most significant transfers in women’s football history. Girma will leave San Diego Wave, where she was a cornerstone player, to bolster Chelsea’s defensive line following Kadeisha Buchanan’s ACL injury.
Why Girma is a Game-Changer for Chelsea
Girma’s exceptional talent has been evident since her debut. Drafted as the first pick in the 2022 NWSL Draft by San Diego Wave, she quickly made an impact:
- 2022: Named NWSL Defender of the Year and Rookie of the Year.
- 2023: Signed a three-year deal and helped San Diego Wave clinch the NWSL Shield under former Manchester United manager Casey Stoney. She was also named NWSL Defender of the Year for a second consecutive season.
- USA National Team: A vital player in the USA’s run to Olympic gold in 2024 and named US Soccer’s Female Player of the Year. She was a standout performer in the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
Chelsea’s Ambitions with Girma
Chelsea are currently at the top of the Women’s Super League (WSL) table with a seven-point lead over Arsenal and have advanced to the Women’s Champions League knockout stages. Girma’s arrival will address the defensive gap left by Buchanan’s injury and strengthen Chelsea’s push for both domestic and European dominance.
The signing follows Chelsea’s record-breaking acquisition of Levante striker Mayra Ramirez in January 2024 for £384,000 plus add-ons. Manager Sonia Bompastor emphasized the importance of Girma’s addition to maintaining their winning momentum.
What This Means for Women’s Football
Naomi Girma’s transfer is a significant milestone in the growth of women’s football, showcasing its increasing financial and global appeal. Chelsea’s willingness to make such an investment highlights the rising competitiveness of the WSL and the club’s ambition to remain a dominant force on the global stage.
