Arsenal has made history by signing Canadian footballer Olivia Smith for £1 million, making her the most expensive women’s signing ever.
This transfer from Liverpool marks a significant milestone for both the club and Smith in women’s football.
At just 20 years old, Smith, who debuted internationally at the age of 15, has signed a four-year contract with the Champions League champions.
This transfer surpasses the previous record set by Chelsea in January when they acquired USA defender Naomi Girma for £900,000 from San Diego Wave.
“It’s a privilege and an honor to join Arsenal,” Smith stated. “Competing for the top titles in England and Europe has always been my dream, and I’m eager to start contributing to that goal with Arsenal.”
Trevor Francis was the first male player to be signed for £1 million when he joined Nottingham Forest 46 years ago.
Smith turned professional in 2023 and joined Liverpool from Sporting in Portugal last year for a club record fee of just over £200,000.
Arsenal’s head coach, Renee Slegers, described Smith as an “exciting young player” who can make a “significant impact.”
During her debut season, she scored seven goals in 20 Women’s Super League matches, helping Liverpool finish seventh.
Liverpool is currently without a manager after sacking Matt Beard in February, with former Manchester City coach Gareth Taylor being the frontrunner for the position.
After winning the Women’s Champions League, Arsenal is keen to enhance their squad, and Smith’s signing is a significant step in that direction, as she is regarded as one of the most promising young talents in the WSL.
Her speed and direct style will add depth to Arsenal’s attack, and she has already demonstrated her capabilities in the WSL with a successful season at Liverpool.
Arsenal has shown interest in Smith for some time, having previously lost out to Liverpool for her signature in 2024, and they are prepared to invest when necessary.
Read also:
- Arsenal’s target Gyokeres faces disciplinary action after missing pre-season training
- Real Sociedad signs Nigerian midfield talent Zac Shuaib after Arsenal exit
- Arsenal agree personal terms with Chelsea’s Noni Madueke
Liverpool has made a profit of nearly £800,000 from the transfer, viewing it as a good deal despite losing one of the world’s most promising young players.
Managing director Andy O’Boyle turned down several offers until the £1 million bid was made. The payment will be made in installments, allowing Liverpool to invest gradually.
The club plans to use these funds to strengthen various areas of their squad this season.
Additionally, there is a sell-on clause, ensuring Liverpool will benefit from any future sale of Smith.
Smith had multiple interested parties, but it is believed she was particularly impressed by Arsenal’s recruitment pitch.
Having moved away from home as a teenager to pursue professional football in Portugal and then making the leap to the WSL by age 20, Arsenal believes she has demonstrated the character and skill needed to be part of an elite team.
Smith’s football journey began at the age of five when she joined Whitby Iroquois SC, and she made her debut in the Canadian youth setup at 12. Fast forward to 2019, and she was propelled into the spotlight.
