Washington Spirit sign Clara Luvanga: Is it a world record transfer?
Tanzanian striker Clara Luvanga has joined Washington Spirit from Al-Nassr in a deal speculated to be one of the most expensive in women's football history.
Washington Spirit Clara Luvanga
Washington Spirit have officially completed the signing of Tanzanian striker Clara Luvanga. The 21-year-old arrives from Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr on a contract that runs through the end of the 2029 NWSL season.
While the official fee remains undisclosed, reports suggest the deal could be worth up to $2.3 million. If accurate, this would make Luvanga the most expensive female footballer in history. The Spirit have declined to comment on the figures, though reports indicate it ranks among the top five most expensive signings in the women's game.
Luvanga becomes the first Tanzanian player to feature in the NWSL. During her three-year stint in Saudi Arabia, she secured multiple domestic titles and finished as the league's top scorer last season with 24 goals in 14 appearances.
I am very excited to join the Washington Spirit and to take on this new challenge in the NWSL. I know I am arriving with the season already under way, but I'm really excited to play in a new league and a new country. Clara Luvanga
Sporting director James Hocken praised the acquisition, noting that Luvanga brings a unique attacking profile and proven goal-scoring ability to the roster as the team pushes toward the play-offs.