Maria Sanchez calls time already! Houston Dash star demands shock trade just FOUR MONTHS after signing biggest ever NWSL contract

Sanchez put pen to paper on a new contract in Houston back in December, one worth an NWSL record $1.5 million (£1.2m). That has been eclipsed by deals signed since, but it remains one of the biggest in the league.

However, despite seemingly committing to the Dash for the next three seasons with that contract, one which also has the option for a fourth year, ESPN reports that the Mexico star has now requested a shock trade ahead of the NWSL's trade and transfer windows closing on Friday. The news comes just four games into the Dash's season.

Asked for comment, a spokesperson for the Houston Dash told ESPN: "Maria Sanchez is under contract, a choice she made in free agency at the end of 2023."

Sanchez's contract is signed with the NWSL, rather than the Dash, so it would remain in place if she joined a new team, meaning any interested parties would have to be able, and willing, to take on that bumper deal.

The NWSL's trade and transfer windows close on Friday night, giving Sanchez only a few days to secure a requested move.