Canada forward Olivia Smith has shattered the women’s football transfer record by completing a £1 million move to Arsenal from Liverpool, becoming the most expensive signing in the sport’s history.
The 20-year-old, who made her senior international debut at just 15, has penned a four-year deal with the reigning Women’s Champions League holders. Her move surpasses the previous record set in January, when Chelsea paid £900,000 for USA defender Naomi Girma.
“It’s a privilege and an honour to sign for Arsenal,” Smith said. “It’s my dream to compete for the biggest titles in England and Europe, and I’m excited to contribute to doing that here.”
Smith joined Liverpool from Sporting Lisbon in 2024 for just over £200,000, scoring seven goals in 20 WSL matches in her debut season. Arsenal head coach Renee Slegers hailed her as an “exciting young player” with the ability to make a “big contribution” to the squad.
Liverpool, currently without a manager, secured nearly £800,000 profit from the sale and inserted a sell-on clause to benefit from any future transfer. The Reds intend to reinvest the record fee into strengthening multiple areas of the squad.
The deal is a statement of intent from Arsenal, who vowed to bolster their squad after winning the Champions League, and caps off a rapid rise for Smith — from teenage prodigy in Portugal to the most valuable player in women’s football in just two years.
