Olivia Smith today became the first £1million player in women’s football after leaving Liverpool to sign for Arsenal.
The 20-year-old only spent 12 months on Merseyside after joining from Sporting CP in July 2024, scoring nine goals 25 appearances, but that was enough to persuade the European champions to make her the most expensive signing in history.
“It’s a privilege and an honour to sign for Arsenal,” said Smith. “It’s my dream to compete for the biggest titles here in England and in Europe and I’m excited to get started and contribute to doing that here with Arsenal.
“The atmosphere the supporters create at Emirates Stadium is incredible and I can’t wait to have that behind me now.”
Play like no one’s watching. Because everybody is. pic.twitter.com/354RLly7tJ
— Arsenal Women (@ArsenalWFC) July 17, 2025
Head coach Renee Slegers was excited to have the Canadian on board, adding: “Olivia is an exciting young player and we believe she can make a big contribution here at Arsenal. We’ve been impressed by her mentality and character, excelling in two European leagues at such a young age.
“I know she has a level of ambition that matches our own and we’re looking forward to working with her as she continues to grow at the club.”
Smith enjoys rapid rise to the top
Smith came through the US college system and made her international debut aged just 15.
She did not turn professional until she joined Sporting in July 2023, scoring 16 goals in 28 appearances in her only season in Portugal.
Her upward trajectory continued at Liverpool by being named the club’s player of the season.
Fee breaks Chelsea’s previous record
Arsenal’s signing of Smith breaks the previous record for a female player, set by Chelsea when they acquired United States defender Naomi Girma from San Diego Wave for £900,000 in January.
The Gunners’ director of women’s football Clare Wheatley said: “We’re thrilled to bring Olivia to Arsenal. She’s one of the most talented young players in the game and has huge potential for further development here at the club.
“On behalf of everyone at Arsenal, I’d like to welcome Olivia to Arsenal and congratulate her on this special moment.”
