Naomi Girma withdraws from USWNT training camp due to calf issue amid transfer rumors

Emma Hayes has lost a key part of her squad for January, as star defender Naomi Girma has left the USWNT training camp with a minor issue, U.S. soccer announced Thursday. She won't be replaced on the squad. Her departure comes amid growing transfer talk that the center back will leave San Diego Wave soon.

ESPNreported Wednesday morning that a European move is possible for the Olympic Gold-winning defender, with Women's Super League and Division 1 Feminine clubs alike interested in securing her services.

Hayes will now be working with a depleted squad over the next week in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Star attacking trio Mal Swanson, Trinity Rodman and Sophia Smith have all been rested for the camp. Lindsey Horan and Rose Lavelle are also both absent.

If Girma is to leave San Diego, her transfer fee could be the biggest in women's football history. Reports have suggested that she could cost upwards of $1 million.

The center back will return to San Diego to rehab her injury. Her long-term future, though, is unclear. San Diego has already made a significant offseason move, parting ways with Jaedyn Shaw in a $300,000 deal with North Carolina.