Aston Villa have secured the services of goalkeeper Emily Ramsey on a free transfer, while Crystal Palace have announced the capture of former Tottenham captain Bethany England. The moves form part of a busy period of recruitment in the Women’s Super League, with Birmingham City also completing a double swoop from Manchester United.
Experienced goalkeeper heads to Villa Park
Ramsey, 25, arrives at Villa having previously represented both Manchester United and Everton in the top flight. The shot-stopper spent three years with the Toffees following an initial loan spell from United, and helped the Red Devils secure promotion to the WSL via the Championship title during the 2018-19 campaign. Despite earning call-ups to England squads in 2021 and 2023, including for the Arnold Clark Cup victory two years ago, she is yet to make her senior international debut.
Villa have moved swiftly to bring in the former England youth international as they continue to build their squad for the upcoming season.
Birmingham raid United for defensive duo
Championship side Birmingham City have strengthened their ranks with the arrivals of defender Millie Turner and midfielder Lisa Naalsund from Manchester United. Both players commanded transfer fees understood to be in the region of £100,000 each.
Turner, a 30-year-old centre-back, departs United after an eight-year spell that saw her make 189 appearances for the club. She was part of the squad that lifted the 2024 Women’s FA Cup. Naalsund, who represents Norway at international level, joined the Manchester outfit in January 2023. The departures mark a significant reshuffle at United, with director of football Matt Johnson praising Turner as a fantastic leader who played a vital role in the club’s achievements over nearly a decade.
England swaps London clubs
Crystal Palace have secured the signature of striker Bethany England on a two-year contract that includes an option for an additional 12 months. The 32-year-old joins on a free transfer from Tottenham Hotspur, where she served as captain. The experienced forward brings a wealth of knowledge to Palace as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
Transfer impact
The flurry of activity highlights the ongoing evolution of squads across the English women’s football pyramid. Villa will hope Ramsey can provide reliable cover between the posts, while Birmingham’s investment in Turner and Naalsund signals clear intent to challenge for promotion. For Palace, the addition of England’s pedigree could prove crucial as they aim to consolidate their position in the top tier.