Thursday, September 10, 2026

Tanzanian forward Clara Luvanga has officially joined the Washington Spirit, transferring from Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr in a move widely regarded as one of the most significant transfers in women’s football history.

The club has not disclosed the official transfer fee, though reports suggest it may reach $2.3 million (approximately £1.7 million), a figure that would set a new record for the most expensive female footballer transfer to date.

While BBC Sport has yet to confirm these numbers, sources close to the transaction indicate the fee places Luvanga among the top five highest-paid signings in the history of the women’s game.

The Washington Spirit opted not to comment further on the financial details when approached for statement.

At 21 years old, Luvanga has signed a contract extending through the 2029 NWSL season, marking a long-term commitment to the club.

If the reported fee holds true, it would surpass the previously mentioned £1.4 million transfer paid by London City Lionesses for Grace Geyoro’s move from Paris Saint-Germain, though that figure itself has been subject to debate.

The opacity surrounding transfer fees in women’s football underscores the challenges in verifying such figures.

Luvanga makes history as the first Tanzanian player to join the NWSL.

During her tenure at Al-Nassr, she secured three consecutive Saudi Women’s Premier League titles, along with the Saudi Women’s Cup, Saudi Women’s Super Cup, and the WAFF Women’s Clubs Championship.

Her standout 2024 season earned her the league’s Golden Boot after scoring 24 goals in 14 appearances.

The Spirit, owned by Michele Kang—who also leads London City Lionesses—have been active in recent transfer activity, including the acquisition of Barcelona’s Alexia Putellas last summer.

Luvanga debuted internationally for Tanzania in 2024, and prior to Al-Nassr, she played for DUX Logroño in Spain after progressing through Yanga Princess’s youth academy.

Speaking about her transfer, Luvanga said: “I’m thrilled to join Washington Spirit and embrace this new challenge in the NWSL. Even though the season is underway, I’m eager to compete in a new league and on a global stage.”

Spirit sporting director James Hocken praised Luvanga’s readiness: “Clara brings a dynamic attacking presence to our squad as we pursue the playoffs. Her goal-scoring versatility and youthful energy make her a perfect fit for this league.”

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