Alexia Putellas, Georgia Stanway, and 10 Key Signings Shaping the 2026-27 Women’s Super League Season
The Women’s Super League (WSL) continues to attract some of the biggest names in women’s football, with this summer's transfer window bringing players who could dominate the 2026-27 season. The signings include stars like two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas, along with former Barcelona teammates Ona Batlle and Mapi León, plus returning Lionesses icons such as Georgia Stanway and Mary Earps.
Alongside these marquee arrivals, several young talents have joined WSL clubs, poised for breakout seasons that may soon make them household names. Here are 10 summer transfers expected to define the upcoming WSL campaign.
Beth England – Crystal Palace
Newly promoted Crystal Palace strengthened their survival hopes by signing the experienced striker Beth England. Last season, Palace struggled to find the net in the top flight after a dominant performance in WSL 2. England, aged 32, brings a wealth of experience, having scored 71 goals in 152 games at Chelsea and 12 goals in 12 appearances at Tottenham during a difficult season. Her leadership and ability to perform under pressure could be vital in helping Palace stay up.
"At Spurs, you might get one chance, and if you don’t take it, that’s all you’ve got. I’ve learned to make more chances count with fewer opportunities," England said.
Georgia Stanway – Arsenal
Arsenal made several strong signings, but the return of Georgia Stanway stands out. After four years at Bayern Munich, where she won eight major trophies, Stanway adds quality and depth to Arsenal’s midfield. Her versatility and experience will reduce the burden on Kim Little and Mariona Caldentey, giving Arsenal fresh options as they chase their first WSL title since 2019.
Mao Itamura – Liverpool
At just 20 years old, Mao Itamura arrives at Liverpool as an exciting new talent. The 2025-26 Women’s Eredivisie Player of the Season scored eight goals and assisted six times, helping Feyenoord to third place. She impressed in pre-season with two outstanding goals and is expected to inject creativity and spark into a Reds squad that struggled last season.
Holly McNamara – Everton
Everton have focused on bolstering their attack after finishing eighth last year. Among their key signings is Australian forward Holly McNamara, a two-time Golden Boot winner in the A-League with Melbourne City. Known for her goal-scoring prowess, McNamara has received high praise from fellow Matildas stars in the league and looks set to become Everton’s main attacking threat.
"I’ve always known she could play for a top team," said Brighton’s Charlie Rule about McNamara.
Alexia Putellas – London City Lionesses
The signing of Alexia Putellas by London City Lionesses is arguably the biggest in WSL history. Fresh off leading Barcelona to a quadruple and earning the Champions League Player of the Season award, Putellas brings unmatched skill and leadership. Backed by billionaire Michele Kang, London City aims to quickly climb the standings with Putellas as their crown jewel, alongside other stars like Mapi León and Kadidiatou Diani.
Teammate Alanna Kennedy noted, "She wants to help," highlighting Putellas’ impact on younger players.
Niamh Charles – Manchester City
Manchester City, the reigning WSL champions, quietly addressed a key weakness by signing left-back Niamh Charles. The England international, who previously won five WSL titles at Chelsea, fills a gap in City's defense and brings valuable experience. Coach Andree Jeglertz praised her personality and both defensive and attacking qualities.
"She has quality in defending and attacking, and the experience from Chelsea’s title runs is invaluable," Jeglertz said.
Manaka Matsukubo – Chelsea
Chelsea signed Manaka Matsukubo from the NWSL after she earned Midfielder of the Year honors in 2025 with 11 goals and 4 assists. The 22-year-old Japan international is versatile but excels as a No. 10—a position Chelsea has struggled to fill. Defender Nathalie Bjorn was impressed by her technical skills, calling her "really, really good" and hoping she will boost Chelsea’s attack after their lowest-scoring season in seven years.
Mary Earps – London City Lionesses
Goalkeeper Mary Earps returns to the WSL with London City Lionesses after two years away at Paris Saint-Germain. While not at the same peak as some of her new teammates, Earps could transform London City’s defense, which conceded 35 goals last season—13 more than the league's top four. Her presence should raise standards and help develop young keeper Elene Lete.
Lia Walti – Brighton
Brighton added Swiss captain Lia Walti to their midfield, a player with a strong pedigree including a WSL title with Arsenal in 2019 and a Champions League win in 2025. Former coach Dario Vidosic praised her leadership and quality, believing she will play a significant role as Brighton aims to build on a season that saw them reach the FA Cup final.
Alice Sombath – Tottenham
Tottenham Hotspur secured defender Alice Sombath from Lyon for a club-record fee. At 22, Sombath brings experience from one of Europe's best teams, having made over 100 appearances alongside legends like Wendie Renard. Her addition strengthens Tottenham's defense, which conceded 38 goals last season, and offers valuable lessons from top-level competition.
Midfielder Drew Spence said, "She learned a lot from Renard, and those experiences push us forward."
