Chelsea confirm Naomi Girma's world-record transfer from San Diego Wave as USWNT star signs long-term contract with WSL giants

The Women's Super League champions have confirmed the arrival of the 24-year-old American defender, who has put pen to paper on a four-and-a-half-year deal. The record-breaking deal saw Girma become the first footballer to break the $1 million (£801,746) transfer fee mark in women's football.

After completing her transfer, Girma told the Blues' official website: "I’m so happy and really excited to be here. It doesn’t feel real. There are a lot of things about Chelsea that made me want to come here - the culture, the winning mentality, staff and players. It’s a top environment to learn and grow in. Right now, that’s what I’m looking to do. It was an easy choice for me."

ESPN reported earlier in January that Chelsea were competing with the likes of Lyon and Arsenal to secure Girma's signature, however, the Gunners reportedly left the transfer race in the final round of negotiations. The Blues have now broken the previous world transfer record held by Racheal Kundananji, who was bought by NWSL side Bay FC from Madrid CFF in February 2024 for $767,600.

Girma was presented to Chelsea fans for the first time before their huge WSL match against Arsenal at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. The USWNT star could make her debut for the Blues when they take in a trip to Aston Villa next weekend.