Tottenham’s recruitment has been shaped by need rather than reputation. Shekiera Martinez arrives after scoring 10 goals in 12 matches since January 2025, giving the club a direct replacement for the attacking threat lost with Bethany England’s departure.
Martinez should add pace and finishing alongside Cathinka Tandberg, while also giving Tottenham greater depth in the final third. Her arrival is a significant move for a team looking to close the gap on the top four.
Caitlin Dijkstra has joined without a transfer fee, adding a different kind of value. Tottenham improved defensively last season but continued to concede avoidable goals, making Dijkstra’s composure and experience an important addition.
Chelsea’s capture of McCabe carries both sporting and psychological weight. The Republic of Ireland international spent more than a decade at Arsenal, operating across multiple positions and contributing to the leadership of the squad.
Her versatility fits Chelsea’s demands, particularly in a team competing across domestic and European fronts. Arsenal’s loss is greater than a single squad departure: Beth Mead has also left without compensation, removing one of the club’s leading creators and finishers.
Manchester City have reportedly moved to secure Mead on a longer-term contract after she assisted Stina Blackstenius for the Champions League final-winning goal.
The market is not limited to the WSL’s leading clubs.
The next phase of the window will show whether Tottenham can turn smart recruitment into a top-four challenge, and whether Arsenal can replace two influential departures before the season begins.