Top News

The transfer window is officially open. As Europe’s premier football competitions draw to a close and new champions are crowned, attention now shifts towards which players will be on the move ahead of the 2026-27 season. This summer is set to be particularly thrilling, with several major stars in women’s football expected to secure new clubs in what promises to be an action-packed few months.

For some players, their next destination already seems clear. Georgia Stanway’s long-anticipated switch to Arsenal has been widely reported for months, with only the official confirmation now awaited.

Others, such as Alexia Putellas and Sam Kerr, face more uncertain futures. Both have been strongly linked with particular clubs, yet recent updates have gone quiet. Could we be in for some unexpected twists and surprise moves?

That’s part of the excitement the coming months will bring, as clubs’ determination to keep their prized assets will be put to the test.

Young sensation Felicia Schroder remains contracted with Hacken until 2029, but with Chelsea reportedly interested, could the Swedish side be tempted by a significant offer? Meanwhile, Chelsea’s own striker Mayra Ramirez has been linked with a move to Spain, and rumours continue around Paris Saint-Germain’s prolific Romee Leuchter, who has only one year remaining on her deal and is attracting attention across Europe.

These are likely to be some of the biggest stories this summer. As the transfer window nears, here are 10 players expected to make moves before the 2026-27 campaign begins.

Alexia Putellas (Barcelona)

Undoubtedly the most high-profile name on this list, Alexia Putellas, a two-time Ballon d’Or winner, could make history with a third Golden Ball later this year after ending her remarkable 14-year spell at Barcelona with yet another Champions League triumph and a stunning quadruple.

Even before that campaign ended, there were strong rumours of interest from London City Lionesses, the Women’s Super League club backed by billionaire Michele Kang, who also owns Lyon and the Washington Spirit. It was unclear whether Putellas would stay at Barcelona or seek a new challenge.

With her departure now confirmed, London City appear to be in pole position to sign the 32-year-old, who has reportedly turned down offers from Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, and Manchester United. According to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, Putellas prefers not to join a direct rival of Barcelona. As such, a move to the NWSL has also been touted, with the Spanish midfielder rejecting proposals from Central America and Saudi Arabia.

Beth Mead (Arsenal)

Beth Mead, one of the most decorated Arsenal players of the modern era, announced her exit from the club after nine successful years, having won every possible trophy. Although she was not a regular starter this past season, her impact remained significant, and she continues to be one of England’s key attacking talents.

Manchester City are reportedly keen on the England forward, with The Athletic revealing their interest in April. The move seems logical on a personal front, as Mead’s partner, Vivianne Miedema, currently plays for City. Football-wise, City’s attacking depth makes the move intriguing, but with their Champions League return secured after winning the WSL title, squad rotation will be crucial.

Niamh Charles (Chelsea)

Left-back is shaping up to be one of the most fascinating positions this transfer window. Niamh Charles, who remains under contract at Chelsea until 2027, is now being linked with a move to Manchester City, according to The Athletic.

The WSL champions need reinforcement at left-back following Leila Ouahabi’s departure and Alex Greenwood’s continued role covering on the left despite her preference for playing centre-back. Signing Charles would allow Greenwood to return to her favoured position while strengthening City’s defensive options.

This move could also benefit the 26-year-old England international personally. While she has been a regular for the national team at times, competition for her spot has intensified. A starting role at City would help solidify her position ahead of future international tournaments.

Georgia Stanway (Bayern Munich)

Georgia Stanway’s next move is one of the worst-kept secrets in football. The England midfielder is expected to join Arsenal this summer, having announced her departure from Bayern Munich in January. She leaves Germany after four successful years, capped by another domestic treble.

Arsenal’s midfield has at times struggled in the absence of Kim Little or Mariona Caldentey, and adding Stanway’s energy and dynamism will provide the depth and quality the club needs as they aim to reclaim top honours.

Mapi Leon (Barcelona)

London City Lionesses are also eyeing another Barcelona legend — Mapi Leon. The 30-year-old Spanish defender, widely regarded as one of the best centre-backs in the world, was instrumental as Barcelona secured a quadruple this season.

Leon’s exit was announced before the season’s end, concluding her nine-year tenure in Catalunya. All indications suggest she will join London City, a major signing that would significantly strengthen the WSL side as they build on their impressive sixth-place finish in their debut top-flight campaign.

Sam Kerr (Chelsea)

Sam Kerr’s time at Chelsea came to a bittersweet conclusion following an ACL injury in early 2024 that sidelined her for nearly 20 months. Despite an inconsistent comeback season, she still showcased her trademark sharpness, netting seven goals in her final seven games and departing as Chelsea’s all-time leading WSL scorer.

Speculation about her next move continues. Though she dismissed rumours linking her to Denver Summit in the NWSL, many expect the Australian striker to return to the United States, where she previously played six seasons and once held the record as the league’s all-time top scorer.

Caroline Weir (Real Madrid)

Despite Real Madrid’s struggles to challenge Barcelona domestically or in Europe, Caroline Weir has been a standout performer since joining in 2022. The Scottish midfielder’s creativity and consistency have been remarkable, with 18 league goal contributions in 2024-25 and an improved 19 this past season.

With her contract expiring this summer, Weir is reportedly in advanced talks with Lyon, the Champions League runners-up, according to ESPN. A move to a title-contending team would give her the chance to turn individual brilliance into collective success.

Ona Batlle (Barcelona)

Ona Batlle is another Barcelona player departing on a free transfer. The full-back rejoined her childhood club in 2023 and impressed across three strong seasons. She is now tipped to return to England, where she previously shone for Manchester United.

Arsenal have been the frontrunners for her signature for months. With Katie McCabe’s recent move to Chelsea, Batlle’s arrival could fill that void and further boost the Gunners’ defensive versatility.

Mary Earps (Paris Saint-Germain)

Mary Earps’ future has often been one of the summer’s most discussed topics. After being heavily linked with Arsenal in 2023, she instead stayed at Manchester United before eventually moving to PSG the following year.

Now, with her contract in Paris nearing its end, the 33-year-old former England No.1 is once again on the radar. While the media buzz isn’t as loud as before, her experience and quality make her an attractive option for top clubs. BBC Sport recently reported that Earps had agreed personal terms with London City Lionesses, signalling an imminent return to England.

Selina Cerci (Hoffenheim)

Arsenal continue to be active in the free-agent market, and Hoffenheim’s Selina Cerci is another name linked with the club. The 26-year-old forward, out of contract this summer, has been one of the Bundesliga’s most prolific strikers over the last two seasons, sharing the 2024-25 Golden Boot and narrowly missing out again in 2025-26.

According to ESPN, Cerci is in talks with several WSL teams, not just Arsenal. While a move to North London would be high-profile, competition for minutes could be fierce, with Alessia Russo, Stina Blackstenius, and rising talent Michelle Agyemang already in the squad. Choosing a club offering regular playing time could be a decisive factor in her decision.