The conclusion of the Women's Super League season on Saturday signifies the end of an era, not only because it is the last campaign with 12 teams before expansion to 14, but also due to the departure of several iconic forwards. Sam Kerr's exit from Chelsea, Beth Mead's departure from Arsenal, and Khadija "Bunny" Shaw's decision to leave Manchester City mark a significant shift for the division's top three clubs. These three players have collectively scored 313 goals for their clubs and have each won at least one WSL title, with Kerr claiming five.
Merry-Go-Round of Forwards
A potential transfer merry-go-round is underway, with Mead reportedly close to joining Manchester City. However, players moving on a free transfer between WSL clubs cannot sign for a new club until June 1, when they enter the final month of their contract. Kerr has been linked with a return to the NWSL in the United States, but her destination remains uncertain. Chelsea are favorites to secure Shaw, and Kerr's exit has heightened their need for the Jamaican striker.
Other Key Departures
Tottenham captain Bethany England is also set for an emotional farewell after scoring 32 league goals in three-and-a-half years. Her services will be highly sought after. Several of this season's top scorers, including Aston Villa's Kirsty Hanson and Manchester City's Vivianne Miedema, are entering the final year of their contracts. The same applies to Manchester United's Elisabeth Terland and Melvine Malard, as well as West Ham's Shekiera Martinez.
Arsenal's Settled Attack
Arsenal appear well-stocked in the No. 9 position with Alessia Russo, Stina Blackstenius, and Michelle Agyemang. Meanwhile, almost every club is monitoring 19-year-old Hacken striker Felicia Schröder, who scored a hat-trick in the Europa Cup final second leg.
Captains on the Move
West Ham captain Katrina Gorry is also leaving when her contract expires in June. The 33-year-old Australian midfielder played in all 22 WSL matches last season and expressed her gratitude to the club, saying, "I've felt at home ever since I arrived. I came here with a two-year-old daughter and I'm leaving east London with an even bigger family."
Market Trends
These departures highlight that out-of-contract moves remain common despite an 83.6% rise in global women's transfer fees in 2025 compared to 2024. Left-back Katie McCabe's summer exit from Arsenal after over 300 appearances is another example. Retirements of stalwarts like Chelsea's Millie Bright, Manchester City's Laura Coombs, and Aston Villa's Lucy Staniforth further underscore the changing landscape. This summer, several clubs, especially Chelsea, will undergo significant rebuilds, making for a fascinating transfer window.
