The January transfer window has opened for WSL clubs, providing them until January 31st to finalize any deals. Here's a breakdown of the potential moves and speculations in the upcoming window.
Mary Earps' Contract Dilemma
During the summer, Arsenal made headlines by offering a world-record fee for a female goalkeeper. Mary Earps, the Manchester United goalkeeper, has been at the center of these speculations.
Negotiations over a contract extension have stretched for months, leading to interest from two European clubs. Earps is now free to engage in conversations with these clubs starting January 1st.
Chelsea's Defensive Reinforcement
Chelsea is actively pursuing French defender Maelle Lakrar. The club aims to bolster squad depth, especially with recent injuries to key players Millie Bright and Aniek Nouwen. Lakrar's potential move to Chelsea could be a significant defensive addition.
Real Madrid's Continued Interest in Nathalie Bjorn
Real Madrid, having pursued Everton defender Nathalie Bjorn in the summer, might be renewing their interest with a fresh offer in January.
The defensive reinforcement could be on the cards for Real Madrid in the upcoming transfer window.
Australian Prospects in WSL
West Ham is in talks with midfielder Katrina Gorry, who recently left Vittsjo GIK. A deal is on the horizon, while Gorry's compatriot Charlotte Grant, also from Vittsjo GIK, is attracting interest from various WSL clubs. Tottenham seems to be a potential destination for Grant.
US Defender Emily Fox in High Demand
US defender Emily Fox has garnered interest from several WSL clubs. However, reports suggest that she is in advanced discussions with top-tier club Arsenal. Fox's potential move could significantly impact Arsenal's defensive capabilities.
Giovana Queiroz's Transfer Quest
Arsenal winger Giovana Queiroz, after a failed loan move to Tottenham in the summer, is actively seeking a move in January.
Tottenham remains a potential option for Queiroz as she explores new opportunities.
Potential Loan Move for Chelsea Forward Aimee Claypole
Chelsea forward Aimee Claypole, at 18 years old, is considering a loan move in January. After signing her first professional contract with Chelsea in November, Claypole aims to gain valuable experience through a potential loan deal.
League Dynamics and Transfer Plans
Chelsea is expected to make several additions, while Manchester United manager Marc Skinner hopes to invest to close the gap on WSL rivals. Manchester City's objective is negotiating new contracts for key players, coupled with openness to new signings and potential departures in January.
Despite having a full squad, Arsenal is looking to make strategic signings. Tottenham is active in the Australian market, and Vilaham is exploring options from his former club BK Hacken. Liverpool, having completed most deals in the summer transfer window, is anticipated to have a quieter January.
This comprehensive breakdown offers insights into the potential movements and strategies of various WSL clubs during the January transfer window.