Angel City forward and U.S. women`s national team winger, Alyssa Thompson, is poised to join Chelsea FC by the transfer deadline. A verbal agreement for a fee under £1 million has been reached, according to The Athletic. Sources in the US have confirmed that Thompson`s move is imminent, though the final transfer fee has not yet been finalized.
The currently reported fee would amount to approximately $1.3 million, positioning Thompson as one of the most expensive transfers in women`s football history. The reigning NWSL Champions, Orlando Pride, recently set a new record of $1.5 million with the acquisition of Lizbeth Jacqueline Ovalle from Liga MX Femenil`s Tigres Femenil.
The 20-year-old USWNT international had previously signed a new contract with Angel City earlier this year, extending until 2028, alongside her sister, defender Gisele Thompson. Once made official, a five-year contract awaits the rising star at Chelsea, who first earned a spot on the main USWNT roster during the 2023 FIFA Women`s World Cup. The winger has already completed her medical examination and is set to join WSL champions Chelsea for the upcoming season.
The attention surrounding this transfer is significant for the global market, reflecting the increasing transfer fees and player valuations. The move also underscores the growing financial strength of top NWSL and European clubs and their capacity to attract elite talent across various leagues. Thompson`s arrival at Chelsea will further bolster their already formidable offensive lineup.
While Blues striker Mayra Ramirez is currently rehabilitating from hamstring surgery, Sam Kerr has returned to full fitness following an ACL injury. Chelsea`s attacking roster also includes Lauren James, Guro Reiten, Aggie Beaver Jones, and Johanna Rytting Kaneryd. This transfer will also see Thompson reunite with her USWNT teammates Catarina Macario and Naomi Girma.
Although Thompson`s departure is a setback for Angel City`s playoff aspirations, the potentially substantial transfer fee could provide the club with resources for future high-profile acquisitions.
