London City Lionesses are on the verge of making two of the most significant signings in their history, with reports suggesting that former England goalkeeper Mary Earps and Spain international defender Mapi León are poised to join the club this summer. The potential arrivals would send shockwaves through the Women's Championship and underscore the Lionesses' serious intent to challenge for promotion to the Women's Super League (WSL).
Mary Earps, a household name in English football, recently departed Manchester United after her contract expired. Her potential move to a Championship side would be unexpected given her stature and recent success, including being named FIFA's Best Women's Goalkeeper in 2023. Her experience and leadership would be invaluable to the London City Lionesses as they aim to climb the football pyramid.
The prospective signing of Mapi León is equally, if not more, striking. León is a highly decorated defender who has spent her career playing at the highest level, most notably with Barcelona, where she has won numerous domestic and European titles. Her decision to potentially join a Championship club in England would represent a considerable shift in her career path and a massive statement of intent from the Lionesses.
London City Lionesses finished fourth in the Women's Championship last season, demonstrating a solid foundation but ultimately falling short of promotion. These rumoured signings suggest a strategic shift, aiming to attract world-class talent to propel them into the top tier of English women's football. The club, based in South East London, has been steadily building its profile since its inception in 2019.
Should these transfers materialise, they would undoubtedly be among the most high-profile moves in the Women's Championship's history. The influx of such experienced and decorated players would not only elevate the standard within the Lionesses' squad but also significantly raise the profile and competitiveness of the entire league, potentially attracting more attention and investment into women's football outside the WSL.
The official announcements are eagerly awaited, but the prospect of Earps and León gracing the Championship pitches next season has already generated considerable excitement among fans and pundits alike. It signals a bold new chapter for London City Lionesses and potentially for the wider landscape of women's football in the UK.
Source: Unnamed sources close to the clubs and players