Chelsea’s Women’s Super League title defence has been rocked before a ball has even been kicked as star striker Mayra Ramirez will miss the start of the campaign after undergoing hamstring surgery. The 25-year-old pulled up clutching her right leg in the first half of Chelsea’s pre-season clash with AC Milan on Saturday. Looking visibly distraught, she was forced off and replaced by Chloe Sarwie.
Manchester United are reportedly exploring a shock swoop for Manchester City and Lionesses midfielder Jess Park before the summer transfer window closes on Thursday. Park made her professional debut at the age of 18 at City and has spent the last eight years at Etihad Stadium. United's interest in Park comes just days after news broke about City's pursuit of their star midfielder Grace Clinton.
After advancing from the second qualifying round, Manchester United will play home and away against Norway's SK Brann for a place in the competition proper.
Portland Thorns have completed the signing of Arsenal sensation Laila Harbert on a short-term loan deal that will be valid until January. The 18-year-old midfielder, who signed her first professional contract with the Gunners in January 2025, spent the second half of the 2024-25 campaign on loan at Southampton. Harbert has been part of the Gunners' youth system since the age of nine.
Manchester City are eyeing a move for Lionesses star Grace Clinton from rivals Manchester United. The 22-year-old midfielder, who is in the final year of his contract at Old Trafford, is yet to pen a new deal and extend her stay at United. Clinton is considered one of the brightest prospects in English football and she recently featured in the European Championship.
Former Manchester United and Chelsea defender Maria Thorisdottir is reportedly reconsidering her future at Olympique Marseille just days after joining, following a shocking brawl during a friendly match in Spain. The 29-year-old, who was signed by the French club to strengthen their defensive line, was left visibly shaken after a violent altercation broke out between Marseille and the Spanish side, Esporti Europa, during a pre-season clash.
Lizbeth Ovalle has become the most expensive women's player in history, signing for the Orlando Pride from Tigres for a word-record fee of $1.5m (£1.1m).