Chelsea Women have reached an agreement with the San Diego Wave for the transfer of U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) defender Naomi Girma, sources close to the negotiations confirmed.

The transfer, valued at a record-breaking $1.1 million, will make Girma the first player in women’s football to command a fee exceeding $1 million.

Transfer Details Still Pending

While terms have been agreed, the deal has not been finalized as negotiations over paperwork and Girma’s contract with Chelsea are ongoing.

The 24-year-old defender is currently under contract with the Wave until 2026, necessitating the substantial transfer fee.

Neither Chelsea nor the Wave have commented on the pending transfer.

The Wave released their preseason roster on Tuesday, which included Girma, and she participated in the team’s first training session.

Girma’s Rising Star

Girma, widely regarded as one of the best defenders in the world, has drawn significant praise for her performances on the international stage, particularly at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she played every minute as the USWNT claimed gold.

Chelsea manager Emma Hayes lauded Girma’s abilities following her side’s semifinal victory over Germany at the Olympics, stating:
“She’s the best defender I’ve ever seen. Ever.”

European and Domestic Interest

Chelsea faced competition for Girma’s signature from top European clubs, including Lyon, who reportedly tabled a $1 million bid. Arsenal, however, were not among the final contenders.

A Stellar Career So Far

Naomi Girma was the first overall pick in the 2022 NWSL Draft, joining the San Diego Wave after a standout collegiate career at Stanford.

She has since been named NWSL Defender of the Year twice and helped the Wave secure the 2023 NWSL Shield.

At the international level, Girma debuted for the USWNT in April 2022 and has earned 44 caps. She missed the team’s January camp due to a minor calf injury.

San Diego’s Preparations for Girma’s Exit

The Wave anticipated Girma’s departure for the 2025 season and recently signed 17-year-old center back Trinity Armstrong from the University of North Carolina on a three-year deal.

Reports suggest Girma had requested a transfer last season, following a similar move by midfielder Jaedyn Shaw, who joined the North Carolina Courage.

Girma’s record signing comes as Chelsea deals with injuries in their defensive lineup, including the loss of key center back Kadeisha Buchanan, who has been sidelined since November with an ACL injury.