Liverpool Women announce Olivia Smith signing for club-record fee
Liverpool Women have completed the signing of Olivia Smith from Sporting CP, subject to international clearance.
The Reds confirmed the move on their official website [2 July] for what was reported to be a club record-fee of £210,000. [BBC Sport, June 27]
It was reported earlier this week that Smith was the priority target for manager Matt Beard. Smith will wear the number 11 for the 2024/25 season.
Smith revealed her intention to push the Reds on in the WSL next season.
She said: “I definitely feel like I can contribute to the players and the team and the staff itself – just as a person but also as a player, pushing for that Champions League spot for next year.” She told liverpoolfc.com.
“I think the biggest thing for me is, ‘Where can I grow?’ And that comes down to the coach and the staff, and I think Matt [Beard] has proved that he’s definitely someone who can help me grow and this is one of the best leagues in the world.
“Having come here after my first pro season is unbelievable and I’m very excited to learn and grow and become the best that I can be.”
Olivia Smith signing is a statement of intent for Liverpool
The signing of Smith represents a massive coup for Liverpool.
Beard is targeting quality over quantity [Liverpool ECHO, 27 June] as he looks to improve on his side’s fourth-place finish last season.
The 19-year-old enjoyed a breakout season in Portugal, scoring 13 goals in 18 Liga BPI appearances.
Sophie Haug was the club’s top scorer in the WSL last season with seven goals.
Smith’s performances earned her Young Player of the Season and Player of the Year awards.
She joins the Reds as one of the hottest prospects in the women’s game.
Her signing will add much needed goals to Beard’s side.
In other Liverpool news, Liverpool Women transfer plan revealed amid record-breaking move.
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