In a historic moment for women’s football, Arsenal have signed Canadian forward Olivia Smith from Liverpool for a world-record transfer fee of £1 million ($1.4 million) as first reported by Tom Garry from The Guardian.
This ground-breaking deal marks the first time a women’s player has commanded a seven-figure fee, eclipsing the previous record of $1.1 million set by Chelsea for U.S. defender Naomi Girma earlier this year. The move signals Arsenal’s bold ambition to dominate the Women’s Super League (WSL) and defend their 2025 Champions League title.
🚨 BREAKING: Liverpool have accepted a world-record £1M fee from Arsenal for Olivia Smith. [@TomJGarry] pic.twitter.com/IEus6E3sYA
— Fanzine WSL (@FanzineWSL) July 10, 2025
A Star on the Rise
At just 20 years old, Olivia Smith has emerged as one of the most exciting talents in women’s football. The Canada international, who debuted for her country at 15, joined Liverpool from Sporting CP last summer for £200,000. In her debut WSL season, she scored seven goals in 20 appearances, contributing nearly a third of Liverpool’s league goals as they finished seventh. Known for her versatility as a winger or central striker, Smith’s pace, technical ability, and relentless work rate made her a target for top clubs, with Arsenal beating out competition from Chelsea and Lyon to secure her signature.
Arsenal’s Ambitious Move
The £1 million transfer fee underscores Arsenal’s determination to build a squad capable of challenging Chelsea’s WSL dominance and sustaining their European success. Under head coach Renee Slegers, the Gunners have bolstered their attack with England winger Chloe Kelly and former Liverpool left-back Taylor Hinds this summer. Smith’s arrival adds further firepower to an already formidable forward line featuring Beth Mead, Caitlin Foord, Katie McCabe, Alessia Russo, and Stina Blackstenius. The signing reflects Arsenal’s strategy to blend youth and experience as they aim to reclaim the WSL title.
Smith’s dynamic style—marked by elite dribbling, high pressing, and defensive contributions—fits perfectly with Arsenal’s high-intensity approach. However, with fierce competition for places, she may initially serve as a rotational player, bringing energy and versatility to the squad.
A Win for Liverpool
For Liverpool, selling Smith for £1 million represents a massive profit on their £200,000 investment just 12 months ago. With a sell-on clause included, the Reds are well-positioned to reinvest in their squad as they look to climb the WSL table after a mid-table finish last season.
A Milestone for the Women’s Game
Smith’s record-breaking transfer is a landmark for women’s football, highlighting its growing financial investment and global appeal. The fee surpasses previous benchmarks, including the $860,000 paid for Zambia’s Racheal Kundananji in 2024. The move underscores the sport’s professionalization and Arsenal’s status as a destination for top talent.
What’s Next?
Pending a medical and personal terms, Smith is expected to join Arsenal’s pre-season preparations for the 2025-26 WSL campaign. With 18 caps and four goals for Canada, she brings international pedigree and youthful hunger to a squad aiming to dethrone Chelsea and defend their European crown. As Arsenal gear up for a transformative season, Olivia Smith’s arrival marks a new chapter in their pursuit of glory and a historic moment for women’s football.
