In a groundbreaking move for women’s football, Arsenal Women have had a world-record bid exceeding £1 million accepted by WSL rivals Liverpool for rising star Olivia Smith, making it the most expensive transfer in women’s football history.
The current record of £900,000, set earlier this year when Chelsea signed U.S. defender Naomi Girma from San Diego Wave, has now been surpassed as Arsenal look to bolster their attacking power ahead of the 2025–26 season.
The deal for 20-year-old Canadian forward Smith is now subject to a medical and agreement on personal terms, according to club sources.
Smith, who joined Liverpool last summer from Portuguese giants Sporting CP, quickly rose to prominence with her seven goals in 20 WSL appearances during an impressive debut season. Her pace, technical finesse, and clinical finishing have made her one of the most sought-after young talents in global women’s football.
A senior international for Canada, Smith is already being tipped as a future global superstar, having played a key role in Canada’s Olympic and World Cup campaigns. Her move to Arsenal is seen as a major statement of ambition by the North London club as they aim to reclaim dominance in the Women’s Super League and make a deeper run in European competition.
If finalized, the transfer will not only reshape the WSL landscape but also further underscore the growing commercial and competitive power of women’s football, as record-breaking deals become the new norm.
Arsenal fans and football watchers worldwide now eagerly await confirmation, as Olivia Smith prepares to make history — both on and off the pitch.
