Transfer Centre LIVE: WSL Deadline Day Drama as Grace Clinton Nears City Switch, Chelsea Chase Alyssa Thompson, Brighton Land Tsunoda
Story: Written by Uzuh Rita Springnewsng September 4,2025
The Women’s Super League (WSL) transfer window closes tonight at 11pm, and clubs are scrambling to finalize last-minute deals in what promises to be one of the most dramatic deadline days yet.
Manchester Derby Tension: Clinton to City, Park to United?
Manchester United have reluctantly accepted Manchester City’s bid for midfielder Grace Clinton, who is in the final year of her contract. United, wary of losing her for free like Alessia Russo, Ona Batlle, and Mary Earps in the past, are set to let her go.
In response, United have made City’s Jess Park their top target. The versatile forward is seen as the ideal addition to bring attacking depth. Both deals are expected to go down to the wire tonight.
Chelsea Push for Alyssa Thompson
The biggest uncertainty surrounds Chelsea’s £1m+ pursuit of U.S. star Alyssa Thompson. The 20-year-old is keen on joining the WSL champions, but her club Angel City FC are resisting due to their ongoing NWSL playoff push and inability to sign a replacement.
Despite the complications, Chelsea are pressing hard to strengthen their attack following Mayra Ramirez’s injury.
Beth Mead Staying at Arsenal
Arsenal star Beth Mead will not be leaving North London. Despite interest from London City Lionesses, the England international has opted to fight for her place at Arsenal. Mead, who joined in 2017, has scored 78 goals in 225 games for the Gunners and remains a key figure for both club and country.
Brighton Complete Tsunoda Signing
Brighton Women have confirmed the signing of Fuka Tsunoda from Japanese champions Urawa Reds. The 20-year-old midfielder, with over 40 appearances since 2022, adds depth to Brighton’s midfield.
Manager Dario Vidosic welcomed her arrival, praising her experience and potential impact.
Men’s Transfer Twist: Gallagher Blocked
On the men’s side, reports suggest Manchester United failed in a late loan move for Conor Gallagher. Atletico Madrid rejected their approach, having already turned down a similar request earlier in the window from Crystal Palace.
Anderson Focused on England Duty
Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, called up for England’s World Cup qualifiers, expressed hope that manager Nuno Espirito Santo remains in charge when he returns. He credited Nuno for giving him the freedom to excel and remains focused on securing his spot in Gareth Southgate’s squad.
⚽ With just hours left before the 11pm WSL transfer deadline, all eyes will be on whether Chelsea can seal Thompson’s blockbuster move and if United can successfully land Jess Park after losing Clinton to City.
