Orlando Pride Shatter Women's Soccer Transfer Record with Blockbuster Mexico Star Signing
Orlando Pride have finalized the acquisition of Mexican striker Lizbeth Ovalle in what represents the most costly transfer in women's football history.
The current NWSL title holders announced the groundbreaking signing merely four days prior to the Secondary Transfer Window deadline. Ovalle has penned a two-year agreement with the Pride, including an option to prolong the contract until 2028.
The Athletic reports that Ovalle transferred from Mexican club Tigres in a transaction valued at $1.5 million (£1.1 million). This amount surpasses the previous record established by Canadian striker Olivia Smith, who moved to Arsenal for $1.3 million (£1 million) in July.
Ovalle's transfer has also shattered the Pride's previous club-record signing, which was held by Barbara Banda. Orlando invested $740,000 to secure the former Shanghai Shengli attacker for the NWSL.
"We remain firmly dedicated to constructing championship-quality squads season after season, and this historic acquisition reflects that commitment," stated Orlando Pride Owner and Chairman Mark Wilf in an official club announcement.
"Jacquie represents world-class ability and a demonstrated champion, and her arrival in Orlando signifies another milestone in our mission to establish the Pride among the premier organizations in international women's football. We take pride in pioneering investment in the women's sport, not merely for current achievements, but to influence the sport's future for upcoming generations," Wilf continued.
Ovalle dedicated her complete professional journey at Tigres and leaves as the organization's highest-scoring player of all time. The 25-year-old accumulated 136 goals and 103 assists across 294 matches for Las Amazonas, contributing to the team's six Liga MX Feminil championships during her eight-season tenure.
The striker also excels internationally for her nation. Ovalle possesses 81 caps for her country and performed a crucial part in Mexico's gold medal triumph at the 2023 Pan American Games.
"I feel tremendous excitement about joining Orlando Pride," expressed Ovalle. "I arrive with the definite goal of capturing championships and making an impact with this organization. I'm prepared to contribute everything and assist Orlando Pride in maintaining their position as a top-tier team."
The Mexican national team player will participate in the Liga MX Femenil Duelo de Estrellas (All-Star Match) on Friday, Aug. 22 before completing her transition to Orlando.
The expectation will rest on Ovalle to assist the Pride in securing consecutive NWSL Championships. The Florida-based team currently occupies third place in the table after 16 matches, behind the KC Current and San Diego Wave.