Luvanga Joins Washington Spirit in Reported Record NWSL Deal — SkimNews
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- Clara Luvanga signed with the Washington Spirit from Al-Nassr on a contract running through the end of the 2029 NWSL season, with the fee reportedly $2.3m (~£1.7m) — a figure that would make her the most expensive female footballer in history if confirmed.
- Luvanga becomes the first Tanzanian player in NWSL history, joining a Spirit roster that now features seven African internationals.
- Al-Nassr swept three Saudi Women's Premier League titles during Luvanga's three seasons there, with the striker claiming the golden boot last season after scoring 24 goals in 14 appearances, plus the Saudi Women's Cup, Super Cup, and WAFF Women's Clubs Championship.
- The reported $2.3m fee would surpass the ~£1.4m London City Lionesses are said to have paid PSG for Grace Geyoro last year — a figure itself disputed, illustrating how women's transfer sums are often kept private.
- Spirit owner Michele Kang also owns London City Lionesses, who this summer signed two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas from Barcelona on a three-year deal.
- Spirit sporting director James Hocken said Luvanga "adds an exciting new dimension to our attack as we head toward the play-offs," citing her ability to "score goals in different ways."
- Luvanga, who debuted for Tanzania's senior team in 2024, has credited Cristiano Ronaldo's focus and determination as career inspiration after meeting him at Al-Nassr.
Why it matters: The reported $2.3m fee would surpass the disputed ~£1.4m London City Lionesses paid PSG for Grace Geyoro last year, and with both clubs owned by Michele Kang, a single ownership group is now driving women's football's fee escalation. For the Spirit specifically, landing a forward who scored 24 goals in 14 appearances last season directly strengthens their playoff push.
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