Key Takeaways
- Manchester City are in advanced talks to sign US midfielder Sam Coffey from Portland Thorns
- The 27-year-old has been granted permission to fly to Manchester to finalize the move, which could be a significant boost to City’s quest for a first Women’s Super League title since 2016
- Coffey has played 42 times at senior international level for the US, scoring five times and providing four assists, and helped the US win gold at the 2024 Olympics
- The move would be a blow to the NWSL, with another of its biggest stars leaving, and specifically another key player for the US national side
- Manchester City are currently six points clear at the top of the WSL at the halfway stage, with the season resuming this weekend after the winter break
Introduction to the Transfer News
Manchester City are on the verge of signing the highly talented US midfielder Sam Coffey from Portland Thorns, according to sources. The 27-year-old has been granted permission to fly to Manchester to try to finalize the move, which could be a significant boost to City’s quest for a first Women’s Super League title since 2016. Coffey has spent three years with Portland and was their captain in 2025, and has two seasons remaining on her contract. With her impressive international experience and skills, she would be a valuable addition to Manchester City’s squad.
Coffey’s Background and Experience
Coffey has an impressive track record, having played 42 times at senior international level for the US, scoring five times and providing four assists. She was also a key player in the US team that won gold at the 2024 Olympics. Her experience and skills would be a significant asset to Manchester City, particularly in the holding midfield role, where she is most adept. Coffey’s international experience and success would also bring a new level of depth and expertise to the team, which could be crucial in their quest for the Women’s Super League title.
Impact on the NWSL and US National Team
The move would be a blow to the NWSL, with another of its biggest stars leaving, and specifically another key player for the US national side. This follows high-profile exits for Alyssa Thompson and Naomi Girma, who were signed by Chelsea last year, and the US right-back Emily Fox, who is in good form for Arsenal after moving in January 2024 from North Carolina Courage. The loss of top players to European clubs could have a significant impact on the NWSL and the US national team, as they look to maintain their competitive edge and develop new talent.
Manchester City’s Current Standing and Prospects
Manchester City are currently six points clear at the top of the WSL at the halfway stage, with the season resuming this weekend after the winter break. The addition of Coffey to their squad could be a significant boost to their chances of winning the title, which they last won in 2016. With their current lead and the addition of a talented player like Coffey, City are well-placed to make a strong push for the title in the second half of the season.
Other Transfer News
In other transfer news, Brighton signed the midfielder Olaug Tvedten from the Norwegian club Vålerenga, with Brighton’s head coach, Dario Vidosic, describing Tvedten as "a technical goalscoring midfielder with real quality". Leicester confirmed the signing of the experienced full-back Ashleigh Neville, who was Tottenham’s longest-serving player, and Bristol City announced their acquisition of the England winger Katie Robinson from Aston Villa. Additionally, Leicester’s Janice Cayman has joined PSV, a move understood to have been predominantly motivated by a desire to be closer to family and friends. These transfers highlight the ongoing activity in the women’s football transfer market, as teams look to strengthen their squads and compete for titles.
