Arsenal are on the verge of completing a world-record £1 million transfer for Liverpool striker Olivia Smith, with the deal set to be officially announced within the next 24 hours. The 20-year-old is expected to become the most expensive player in women’s football history, surpassing the fee Chelsea paid for Naomi Girma earlier this year.
Smith only joined Liverpool last summer from Sporting Lisbon for a club-record £212,000. She quickly made her mark in the Women’s Super League, finishing as the Reds’ top scorer with seven goals. Despite her impact, Liverpool endured a difficult campaign, dropping from a fourth-place finish to seventh and parting ways with manager Matt Beard midway through the season.
Arsenal to land a generational Canadian talent Olivia Smith
Born in Canada, Smith has been regarded as one of the brightest young forwards in the global game. She made her senior international debut at just 15 years and 94 days, becoming the youngest player to ever represent Canada. Since then, she has earned 16 senior caps, scoring three goals and providing three assists.
Her talent was recognised by Canada Soccer, who named her their Young Player of the Year in 2024. Smith’s blend of pace, sharp movement, and elite mentality makes her a perfect addition to an Arsenal side looking to build on their European dominance and close the gap to Chelsea domestically.
Speaking to The Athletic in late 2024, Smith revealed her childhood ambitions: “Even back then, I swear, I wanted to win a Ballon d’Or one day. I wanted to play in a World Cup, in an Olympics, to play for my national team. I could see myself meeting my idols and playing against them.”
Arsenal’s vision has been clear this summer under Renée Slegers
Smith’s arrival continues an aggressive and strategic window from Arsenal. After securing a permanent deal for England winger Chloe Kelly and adding Liverpool full-back Taylor Hinds, the Gunners have now delivered their boldest move yet. The club, under head coach Renee Slegers, is building a squad capable of staying at the top of Europe while pushing Chelsea domestically.
Arsenal finished second in the WSL last season but won their second-ever Champions League title with a 1-0 win over Barcelona in Lisbon, having beaten Lyon in a stunning semi-final. Adding a profile like Smith’s only reinforces the club’s ambition to dominate both home and abroad.
Final thoughts
For Arsenal to commit £1 million to a 20-year-old is a major statement of faith in Smith’s ceiling. This is not just about potential, it’s about immediate quality and a long-term fit. Smith arrives with experience, hunger, and a belief that she belongs on the biggest stage. With a growing Canadian core in world football and Arsenal’s structure under Slegers, this could be one of the defining signings of the modern women’s game.
