- Chelsea close in on £1m deal for Thompson
- Winger set for five-year contract
- Blues strengthen amid injury setbacks
The Women’s Super League champions have been working frantically to get the transfer wrapped up before the 11pm deadline, and now the move is on the verge of completion. Thompson, who was the first overall pick in the 2023 NWSL draftand the first high school player to ever be selected at No.1, has been left out of Angel City’s squad in recent days as negotiations accelerated. The young forward has bagged six goals in 16 league appearances this campaign, underlining her rapid rise in the NWSL.
Despite her tender age, Thompson already boasts a serious pedigree on the international stage. She made her U.S. women’s national team debut as a 17-year-old against England in October 2022 and has since racked up 22 caps. Her pace, direct dribbling, and eye for goal have made her a nightmare for defenders, and Chelsea are banking on her adding a fresh spark to their attack, particularly at a time when injuries are testing the squad’s depth.
Star forward Lauren James is struggling with an injury, while record-signing Mayra Ramirez has undergone hamstring surgeryand is sidelined for the start of the campaign. Thompson’s pending arrival provides atimely boost for Sonia Bompastor’s sideas they aim to defend their WSL crown and push further in Europe.
The Blues have already flexed their financial muscle with a series of signings this summer. Australian defender Ellie Carpenter, Swiss goalkeeper Livia Peng, shot-stopper Becky Spencer, and highly rated youngster Mara Alber have all arrived at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea begin their title defence on Friday night with a blockbuster clash against Manchester City at Stamford Bridge. All eyes will be on whether Thompson is registered in time to make her debut, though it is more likely that she will be eased into action following her arrival from the United States.
