London City Lionesses have made history by signing France midfielder Grace Geyoro from Paris Saint-Germain in a world-record transfer worth €1.65 million (£1.43 million).
The move, finalized just before the Women’s Super League transfer window closed at 11 p.m. on Thursday, makes Geyoro the third player in less than two months to break the women’s football transfer record.
The record was first broken in July when Arsenal paid £1 million for Canada’s Olivia Smith. Weeks later, Mexico star Lizbeth Ovalle joined Orlando Pride for around £1.1 million.
Backed by American owner Michele Kang, London City are wasting no time flexing their financial muscle. Kang also owns French champions Lyon and U.S. club Washington Spirit, giving the newly promoted side serious backing as they prepare for their first WSL season.
This summer alone, the Lionesses have signed Netherlands midfielder Daniëlle van de Donk, England forward Nikita Parris, and Spanish teenager Lucía Corrales, who reportedly cost €500,000.
The club, based in Kent, is the first fully independent team to reach the WSL, and they are openly aiming to challenge the established elite.
PSG bid farewell to Geyoro with high praise, calling her an “iconic figure” who left “an indelible mark” on the club’s history.
Elsewhere in the league, Arsenal forward Alessia Russo has committed her future to the club by signing a new long-term deal. Russo, who joined from Manchester United in 2023, has scored 36 goals in 72 appearances and shared last season’s Golden Boot with Manchester City’s Khadija Shaw.
The 26-year-old was also named the Football Writers’ Association women’s footballer of the year and shortlisted for the Ballon d’Or.
“Arsenal feels like home,” Russo said. “This is such a special club and it has felt that way to me from the moment I joined.”
Manager Renée Slegers added: “She’s a selfless player who works so hard for the team and contributes hugely to our culture.”
