Key Signings Shaping the 2026-27 Women’s Super League Season

The Women’s Super League in England continues to attract some of the biggest names in football, with this summer’s transfer window underscoring its reputation as possibly the best league in Europe and beyond. Stars like two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas, along with her Barcelona teammates Ona Batlle and Mapi Leon, have arrived, while notable Lionesses such as Georgia Stanway and Mary Earps have returned home.

Beyond the headline-grabbing signings, clubs have also invested in young talent poised for breakout seasons, potentially turning into household names soon. Below are ten transfers that could define the new WSL season.

Beth England (Crystal Palace)

Newly promoted Crystal Palace strengthened their squad by signing the experienced striker Beth England. After scoring abundantly in WSL 2, Palace previously struggled in the top flight, managing only 20 goals in 22 games during the 2023-24 season, which led to relegation. England brings a wealth of experience with 11 goals in 26 caps for England and 71 goals in 152 appearances for Chelsea, where she won 10 trophies.

Her recent spell at Tottenham was impressive; she scored 12 goals in 12 WSL games after joining mid-season, helping Spurs avoid relegation. England commented on adapting to fewer chances and working harder without the ball, showing maturity and resilience. Her leadership and knack for finishing could be crucial in Palace’s fight to stay up.

Georgia Stanway (Arsenal)

Georgia Stanway returns to England after four years at Bayern Munich, where she won eight major titles. Arsenal’s midfield had become too reliant on Kim Little and Mariona Caldentey, so adding Stanway provides both depth and elite quality. The versatile midfielder is expected to ease the burden on key players, helping Arsenal challenge for their first WSL title since 2019 alongside new signing Geraldine Reuteler.

Mao Itamura (Liverpool)

At just 20, Mao Itamura joins Liverpool after earning the Women’s Eredivisie Player of the Year award in 2025-26. She contributed eight goals and six assists for Feyenoord last season, helping them finish third. Liverpool lacked a standout playmaker last term, and Itamura’s creativity and goal-scoring ability, demonstrated early in preseason with two stunning goals against Sheffield United, may provide the spark needed to improve their league position.

Holly McNamara (Everton)

Holly McNamara, Australia’s back-to-back Golden Boot winner in the A-League, arrives at Everton after a disappointing eighth-place finish last season. McNamara is one of the most exciting young forwards, holding a club record of 45 goals in 66 games for Melbourne City. Everton’s attack was lacking, with joint-top scorers having just four goals each last season, so McNamara’s goal-scoring threat could transform their offensive output.

Alexia Putellas (London City Lionesses)

The signing of Alexia Putellas by London City Lionesses might be the biggest in WSL history. Coming off a quadruple-winning season with Barcelona and multiple personal awards, including two Ballons d’Or and likely a third in 2026, Putellas brings world-class talent and leadership. Backed by Michele Kang’s investment, London City has also signed other stars like Mapi Leon and Kadidiatou Diani, aiming to rise quickly in the league. Putellas’ influence on and off the pitch, especially with younger players, will be central to their ambitions.

Niamh Charles (Manchester City)

Niamh Charles joined reigning champions Manchester City from Chelsea, where she won five consecutive WSL titles. City addressed weaknesses at left-back by signing Charles, who brings both defensive solidity and attacking support. Manager Andree Jeglertz praised her quality and leadership, expecting her experience from Chelsea’s dominant era to help City maintain their domestic success and compete in the Champions League.

Manaka Matsukubo (Chelsea)

Manaka Matsukubo, named NWSL Midfielder of the Year in 2025, signed a five-year deal with Chelsea. The 22-year-old impressed with 11 goals and four assists for North Carolina Courage. Known for her technical skill and creativity, particularly as a No.10, she could fill a key role in Chelsea’s attack, which underperformed last season. Teammate Nathalie Bjorn highlighted her speed and technical prowess, marking her as a vital addition for Chelsea’s hopes to regain WSL dominance.

Mary Earps (London City Lionesses)

Former England goalkeeper Mary Earps returns to the WSL with London City Lionesses after two years at Paris Saint-Germain. Although not as globally acclaimed as some teammates, Earps brings critical quality between the posts. London City conceded 35 goals last season, with poor save statistics from their previous keeper. Earps’ experience is expected to strengthen their defense and mentor younger goalkeepers like Elene Lete, who remains under contract.

Lia Walti (Brighton)

Lia Walti joins Brighton after a season at Juventus. She was part of Arsenal’s 2019 WSL title-winning team and captained Switzerland at Euro 2024. Known for controlling midfield play and leadership, Walti fits the profile of players who can raise standards, similar to what Fran Kirby provided last season. Brighton aims to build on their FA Cup final appearance and solid league performance with Walti’s arrival.

Alice Sombath (Tottenham)

Alice Sombath arrived at Tottenham for a club-record fee. The 22-year-old defender made over 100 appearances for Lyon, learning from icons like Wendie Renard. Spurs had defensive struggles last season, conceding 38 goals, so Sombath’s experience and technical ability are valuable assets. Her presence is expected to strengthen the back line and contribute to Tottenham’s progress under coach Martin Ho.