Newcastle United are set to make a major statement in the Women's Super League 2 transfer market, with advanced talks underway to land Republic of Ireland international Leanne Kiernan from Liverpool. The Magpies are on the cusp of securing a huge coup as they bid to go one better than their 2022 WSL 2 title near-miss and finally lift the trophy.
Kiernan, 27, has been on fire in her five-year stint at Anfield, notching 23 goals in 76 appearances for the Reds. She was the club's top scorer with 14 goals when they won the WSL 2 title in 2022, and her experience could be the missing piece of the jigsaw as Newcastle chase promotion to the Women's Super League.
The forward has also had spells at West Ham, making over 40 appearances for the Hammers before joining Liverpool. Despite being one of their top performers, Kiernan has seen limited game time under manager Gareth Taylor in recent months, and her loan move to Nottingham Forest last January could be a sign that her days are numbered at Anfield.
The arrival of Germany international Vivien Endemann from Wolfsburg has added fresh attacking options for Liverpool, potentially paving the way for Kiernan's departure. Newcastle would need to pay a transfer fee to secure her services, but it looks like they're willing to take the plunge – and it could be a masterstroke.
With six new signings already on board this summer, Newcastle are building a squad that's ready to take on the best in WSL 2. And Kiernan, with her experience and goal-scoring ability, would be the icing on the cake for manager Alex Stokes as he bids to guide his team to promotion.