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2mo ago

Sam Kerr Reportedly Set to Rejoin Gotham FC After Chelsea Exit

The reported signing would give the NWSL champion a world-class striker, funded by allocation money from the Lilly Reale trade, signaling Gotham's broader investment in facilities.

Soccer Football - Women's Super League - Chelsea v Manchester United - Stamford Bridge, London, Britain - May 16, 2026 Chelsea's Sam Kerr applauds fans after her last match for Chelsea Action Images via Reuters/Andrew Couldridge/File Photo
Chelsea FC v Manchester United - Barclays Women's Super League
An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows Sam Kerr of Australia controls the ball during a women's international friendly match, Image 2 shows Lilly Reale kicking a soccer ball while playing against the Houston Dash
Sam Kerr is set to join Gotham FC.

Overview

  • Multiple outlets reported Wednesday that Sam Kerr is set to join Gotham FC on a free transfer after her Chelsea contract expired.
  • Kerr scored 116 goals in 158 appearances for Chelsea, won multiple domestic trophies and finished the 2025–26 season strong after returning from a January 2024 ACL injury.
  • Gotham traded defender Lilly Reale to Boston Legacy for $350,000 in allocation money and $50,000 in intraleague funds, resources the club can use against the NWSL salary cap.
  • The move follows Gotham’s recent off-field moves including plans for a roughly $35 million New Jersey training facility and the promotion of Yael Averbuch West to president of soccer operations.
  • Reports say the deal is expected but not yet universally confirmed by the club, and Gotham will still need to navigate NWSL roster rules and registration timing before Kerr can play.