Star footballer Olivia Smith shatters records with her £1 million transfer from Liverpool to Arsenal, making her the highest-paid female footballer ever.
In a groundbreaking move for women's football, Canadian striker Olivia Smith has transferred to Arsenal for a record-breaking fee of £1 million, surpassing the previous high of £900,000 set by Chelsea for Naomi Girma earlier this year[1][2].
At just 20 years old, Smith signed a long-term contract with the reigning Champions League winners, who matched Liverpool’s high valuation for the player after multiple bids from other top clubs such as Chelsea and OL Lyonnes were rejected[1].
Smith's impressive debut season at Liverpool, her first in England, saw her finish as the club's top scorer with nine goals in 25 appearances and earn the Player of the Season award[1]. Arsenal manager Renée Slegers expressed optimism about Smith’s potential impact, praising her mentality, character, and ambition which align with the club’s vision[1].
The record-breaking transfer is significant for several reasons. Crossing the £1 million transfer fee milestone signals a growing valuation and investment in women's football talent, helping to elevate the market and player wages[1]. High-profile transfers like Smith's attract media attention and fan interest, potentially leading to greater commercial sponsorship and broadcasting opportunities[1].
Moreover, movement of top talents among elite clubs helps raise competitive standards in leagues such as the Women's Super League, fostering higher-quality football[1]. Smith’s move to Arsenal exemplifies the accelerating professionalization and commercial growth of women’s football, indicating a positive trajectory for the sport’s future[1][2].
Smith made her international debut for Canada at the age of 15 and currently has 18 caps for her country[1]. Her season with Liverpool saw her score seven league goals[1]. Renee Slegers, Arsenal coach, has expressed excitement about Smith's potential impact for the European champions[1].
[1] BBC Sport, "Olivia Smith: Arsenal sign Canada striker for record £1m fee", 1 July 2025,
[2] The Guardian, "Arsenal break women's transfer record to sign Olivia Smith from Liverpool", 1 July 2025,
- The record-breaking transfer of Olivia Smith from Liverpool to Arsenal, worth £1 million, not only sets a new standard for women's football player values but also increases the potential for higher commercial sponsorship and broadcasting opportunities in European leagues, such as the Women's Super League.
- Despite the escalating rivalry in women's sports like football, Smith's transfer to Arsenal from Liverpool showcases the growing professionalism and commercial growth in the sport, indicating a positive trajectory for the future of women's football, and helping raise competitive standards across European leagues.
