Orlando Pride makes Ovalle most expensive women's player of all-time

Mexico international Lizbeth Ovalle has made history by becoming the most expensive women’s footballer ever. The 25 year old forward has signed for NWSL champions Orlando Pride from Tigres in a world record transfer worth $1.5 million. The move surpasses previous record deals for stars like Naomi Girma and Olivia Smith. Ovalle, nicknamed “La Maga” or “the magician,” was heavily linked with several European giants including Barcelona, Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal, Manchester City, Real Madrid and Wolfsburg. Instead, she opted for the United States to continue her career.

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Ovalle signs a contract with Orlando Pride running until the end of the 2027 season, with an option for an additional year in 2028. She departs Tigres as the club’s all time leading scorer, with 136 goals and 103 assists in 294 appearances. During her eight years with the Mexican side, she collected six league titles and became a household name in women’s football across North America. Ovalle also impressed at international level, including scoring in Mexico’s Gold Cup win over the U.S. women’s national team last year.

Her arrival adds firepower to an Orlando squad already boasting names like Marta and Barbra Banda, but which has lacked scoring consistency this season.

Club executives hailed Ovalle’s signing as a landmark moment for both the Orlando Pride and women’s football globally. Owner Mark Wilf described her as a “world class talent and proven winner,” emphasizing the team’s ambition to establish itself among the top clubs in the world. Sporting director Haley Carter added that the record breaking deal reflects the organization’s vision to invest in elite players and elevate the women’s game for future generations.

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Ovalle herself expressed her excitement, saying she is eager to win titles with the Pride and leave a lasting mark on the club. She will join an Orlando team that won its first ever NWSL Championship last year, but which has been less effective in attack during the current season. Her proven ability to create and score goals is expected to strengthen the team’s push to defend its crown.

Before officially moving, Ovalle will feature in Liga MX Femenil’s first ever All Star Game, facing Barcelona alongside other league stars. She will then complete her switch to Orlando, though she will miss their next fixture against Angel City. Her debut could come on August 29 against Gotham, where she will begin her new chapter in the NWSL.