Top WSL Signings of 2026: Coffey, Schuller Lead the Pack

Women’s Super League signings took center stage in the 2026 January transfer window, as English clubs made bold moves to strengthen their squads for the second half of the season. With investment in women’s football reaching new heights, this window delivered blockbuster arrivals—three of which ranked among the top 15 most lucrative deals in women’s game history. Let’s break down the most impactful transfers and what they mean for the league’s future.

Sam Coffey: Manchester City’s Midfield Revolution

Sam Coffey arrived at Manchester City in a record-breaking transfer, immediately raising the club’s midfield quality. With City manager Andree Jeglertz deploying Yui Hasegawa in more advanced positions, Coffey’s versatility and composure offer City tactical flexibility, especially during international absences. Her three-and-a-half-year deal cements City’s intent to dominate both domestically and in Europe.

Lea Schuller: Manchester United’s Statement Signing

German star Lea Schuller’s move from Bayern Munich to Manchester United made headlines, reinforcing United’s Champions League ambitions. With over 100 goals for Bayern and 50 for the German national team, Schuller adds elite firepower to a squad already boasting Elisabeth Terland and Melvine Malard. Her experience and killer instinct could be the difference as United embark on their first Champions League knockout campaign.

Defensive Reinforcements: Jennifer Falk and Tuva Hansen

Liverpool, languishing at the WSL’s bottom, secured Swedish international goalkeeper Jennifer Falk on loan from Hacken. Falk’s leadership helped Liverpool register three clean sheets in 2026, stabilizing their previously porous defense. Meanwhile, West Ham brought in Tuva Hansen from Bayern Munich, whose trophy-winning pedigree and versatility across the backline offer much-needed defensive solidity.

Rising Talents: Smilla Holmberg and Ellen Wangerheim

Arsenal’s acquisition of 19-year-old Swedish full-back Smilla Holmberg underscores a continued focus on youth. Though she starts as backup, Holmberg’s dynamic style promises long-term reward, provided she adapts better than some of Arsenal’s previous young signings. Manchester United’s club-record signing, Ellen Wangerheim, comes off a 17-goal campaign in Sweden and has the potential to become a household name if she acclimates to the WSL’s demands.

Attacking Threats: Alice Bergstrom and Signe Gaupset

Liverpool’s forward line looks revitalized with Alice Bergstrom, who hit the ground running after a title-winning season at Hacken. Her early goals have injected hope into Liverpool’s survival bid. Tottenham’s swoop for 20-year-old Norwegian Signe Gaupset, reuniting her with former coach Martin Ho, signals a commitment to player development. Gaupset’s creativity and ambition should flourish with regular minutes.

International Flair: Delphine Cascarino to London City Lionesses

London City Lionesses continued their ambitious rebuild by signing French winger Delphine Cascarino from San Diego Wave. Cascarino’s Champions League pedigree and prime-age explosiveness complement the club’s summer addition of Grace Geyoro. New manager Eder Maestre now faces the challenge of integrating Cascarino’s game-changing qualities into a young, evolving squad.

Midfield Engine: Oriane Jean-Francois Finds New Rhythm

Aston Villa’s record outlay for Oriane Jean-Francois, poached from Chelsea, reflects the midfielder’s ability to disrupt opponents and dictate play. With regular game time, Jean-Francois could deliver on her immense promise and help Villa climb the table.

Transfer Market Trends: WSL Clubs Flex Financial Muscle

The 2026 January transfer window underlined the Women’s Super League’s status as a destination for top talent, with clubs willing to invest heavily to secure their targets. These signings not only boost on-field performance but also demonstrate English football’s growing allure and competitiveness. As the summer window looms—with stars like Georgia Stanway and Ona Batlle set for free agency—the WSL’s global appeal is only set to increase.

Looking Forward: The Impact of 2026’s Best WSL Signings

Women’s Super League signings this winter have the potential to reshape the league’s dynamics. Coffey’s arrival at City elevates their title credentials, while Schuller’s move to United could ignite a new era at Old Trafford. Defensive reinforcements at Liverpool and West Ham may decide the relegation battle, and rising talents like Holmberg and Wangerheim offer fans a glimpse of the future.

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Opinion: A New Era Dawns in the WSL

This January’s Women’s Super League signings mirror the league’s upward trajectory. The mix of world-class stars and emerging talents means fans can expect tighter title races, fierce relegation battles, and unforgettable moments. If these additions reach their potential, the WSL is set for its most compelling chapters yet.