Chelsea transfer news: US defender Naomi Gilma emerges as Blues’ potential world record trade target Transfer Center News

Chelsea are interested in signing San Diego Tide defender Naomi Gilma, with a deal likely to require a world-record transfer fee.

Lyon are also keen to sign Gilma sportsman The French club reportedly offered $1 million (£821,000) for the 24-year-old, a record transfer fee for a women’s player.

U.S. international Gilmar has made 44 appearances for the national team and won a gold medal with the U.S. team at the 2024 Olympics.

Gilma was also named the 2023 U.S. Soccer Female Athlete of the Year.

Chelsea ‘absolutely keen’ on Gilma

Sky Sports News reporter Anton Torui:

Chelsea are certainly keen and will almost certainly spend a world-record fee to sign Gilma.

Lyon have the funds to complete the deal via investment from Michel Kahn, as the club looks to return to the top of European football and potentially find a long-term solution for defender Wendie Renard.

Chelsea aren’t afraid to spend big in January, you just have to look at the £400,000 they spent on Myra Ramirez and the league-leading contract they initially signed Sam Cole to.

Another reason why Chelsea might want to sign Gilma now is that Kadisha Buchanan is out for the season with an ACL injury.

Gilma’s contract expires at the end of 2026 and he seems likely to leave for Europe.

Many consider her to be the best centre-back in the world. Now someone has to prove it financially.

Why Chelsea must face West Ham this weekend

Sky Sports News senior football reporter Charlotte Marsh:

Although Chelsea are the undisputed leaders of the WSL, their title bid has seen some volatility of late.

They drew 1-1 with Leicester City in their last league game and achieved a big victory. This also ended their 100% winning record.

They have won two games since facing Real Madrid in the Champions League and Charlton Athletic in the FA Cup at the weekend, as well as a winter training camp in Portugal, but Leicester City’s result may only be in some It leaves a shadow in one’s mind.