On July 10, 2025, an exceptional milestone was reached in women’s football as Arsenal secured a world record transfer fee of over £1 million to acquire Olivia Smith from Liverpool, a prominent rival in the Women’s Super League (WSL). This historic transaction surpasses the previous record fee of £900,000 that Chelsea had paid to acquire United States defender Naomi Girma from San Diego Wave in January of the same year.
At only 20 years old, Olivia Smith, a talented forward and international player for Canada, is now set to become the most expensive signing in women’s football history. However, this deal is contingent upon the successful completion of a medical examination and the negotiation of personal terms between Smith and Arsenal.
Smith’s journey in professional football began when she joined Liverpool from Sporting Lisbon last summer, marking a significant progression in her career. In her debut season within the WSL, Smith showcased her skills, netting seven goals in 20 appearances and quickly establishing herself as a valuable player for her team. Initially, her move to Liverpool was for what was reported as a club-record fee, slightly exceeding £200,000, and she still has a few years remaining on her contract with the club.
On Arsenal’s end, the club has made strategic moves in the transfer market, solidifying their squad with the addition of Smith, alongside other notable acquisitions such as Chloe Kelly from Manchester City and Taylor Hinds, a former Liverpool left-back. The Gunners are bolstering their roster with the aim to maintain their dominance in the league and to retain their title in the Champions League.
The sale of Olivia Smith also presents a crucial opportunity for Liverpool to enhance their squad. The club, which finished seventh in the previous WSL season, is recognizing the need for reinvestment following the departure of key players. Currently without a manager, following the sacking of Matt Beard in February, Liverpool is considering various candidates, with former Manchester City boss Gareth Taylor believed to be a leading prospect for the role.
The significance of this record transfer has not gone unnoticed in the sporting community. Notably, former midfielder Izzy Christiansen, who has played for both Manchester City and the England national team, expressed her astonishment regarding the fee during a recent commentary. Christiansen highlighted that while Smith is still early in her career, her move to Arsenal—a club boasting numerous established talents—could elevate her game further.
At Arsenal, Smith will join a wealth of talent in the attacking lineup, including renowned players like Chloe Kelly, Beth Mead, Caitlin Foord, Katie McCabe, Alessia Russo, and Stina Blackstenius. This depth poses a challenge for Smith, as she will need to compete for her position among qualified players. However, Christiansen noted this transfer is not merely about the immediate impact but also a part of a larger plan for Smith’s development within a top-tier club.
Moreover, the transfer fee represents an extraordinary advancement in women’s football, illustrating how the sport is increasingly being acknowledged and valued at competitive levels. This transaction is a clear indication of the growing investment and interest in the women’s game, showcasing the commitment of clubs towards nurturing talent and promoting elite competition.
In conclusion, Olivia Smith’s impending transfer from Liverpool to Arsenal not only redefines market standards in women’s football but also paves the way for increased attention towards women’s sports. As the landscape of women’s football continues to evolve, such record transfers underscore the sport’s potential for growth and the importance of substantial investment in female athletes.
