2026 January Transfer Window Opens Amid Wave of Contract Expiries in English Women's Football
The January 2026 transfer window for English women's football clubs opens on 2 January and closes on 3 February, set against a backdrop of numerous high-profile contract expiries throughout the year.
Among the most prominent contract expirations was Trinity Rodman's Washington Spirit deal, which ended on New Year's Eve, illustrating the significant player movement possibilities this window.
Several leading players, including Khadija Shaw of Manchester City, Sam Kerr, Catarina Macario, and several Barcelona regulars such as Batlle, Paralluelo, León, Graham Hansen, and Torrejón, along with Alexia Putellas who holds a contract with an extension option, have agreements expiring by mid-2026.
Chelsea faces important decisions regarding players like Kerr, Macario, and Hampton, while Guro Reiten is in her final season with the club. Bronze, Bright, and Beever-Jones are under contracts until 2026 with potential extensions. Chelsea is expected to remain active in the market.
Arsenal, with Kim Little and Stina Blackstenius in the last six months of their contracts, are seeking reinforcements for goalkeeper and right-back positions; Smilla Holmberg has been linked as a target.
Manchester United have secured Lea Schüller on a contract until 2029 (three and a half years), added Hanna Lundkvist to the squad, and confirmed an extension for Hinata Miyazawa.
Tottenham have announced the signing of Matilda Nildén, joining Gaupset and Hanna Wijk already on their roster.
Liverpool are seeking reinforcements amidst a significant injury list, while West Ham, newly managed by Rita Guarino, are also expected to be active during the window.
Although 2026 features no major international tournaments such as World Cup, Euros, or Olympics, possibly lowering urgency in player acquisitions, rising transfer fees—from $5.8 million in January 2025 to $12.3 million in summer 2025—indicate a continuation of a spend-driven market.
