Arsenal Women have made history by agreeing a world-record £1 million deal with Liverpool for the signing of Canadian forward Olivia Smith, marking the highest transfer fee ever paid in women’s football.
The 20-year-old sensation only joined Liverpool from Sporting Lisbon in 2024 for a reported £210,000, but quickly established herself as a rising star in the Women’s Super League (WSL). Smith scored 7 goals in 20 appearances, becoming Liverpool’s top scorer in her debut season.
Despite heavy interest from major clubs including Chelsea and Lyon, Liverpool held out until Arsenal met their asking price, cementing Smith’s move as the biggest transfer in the history of the women’s game.
The deal surpasses the previous record held by Chelsea’s January 2025 acquisition of U.S. defender Naomi Girma for £900,000.
Smith’s signing comes on the heels of Arsenal’s UEFA Women’s Champions League triumph, and reflects the club’s aggressive summer rebuild aimed at reclaiming the WSL title. She will join recent additions Chloe Kelly and Taylor Hinds, adding firepower and versatility to the Gunners’ attacking line.
Although the deal is subject to a medical and personal terms, Smith’s move signals a new era for the women’s transfer market, one where seven-figure deals could soon become the norm.
The Canadian international’s rapid rise—from dominating the Portuguese league to becoming Liverpool’s standout performer—has made her one of the most watched young talents in world football.
This record-breaking transfer not only strengthens Arsenal’s title hopes, but also underlines their status as one of the most ambitious and financially committed clubs in women’s football.