London City Lionesses are reportedly on the verge of pulling off a transfer coup that would make other WSL clubs green with envy, or at least slightly concerned. The Guardian understands that the club has reached agreements to sign England goalkeeper Mary Earps and Barcelona defender Mapi León on free transfers once their contracts expire at the end of June.

Earps, 33, has been itching to return to the Women’s Super League after a two-year stint with Paris Saint-Germain, and London City apparently identified her as a key summer target months ago. Because nothing says 'ambition' like a club that's been quietly stalking a goalkeeper since winter.

León, who turns 31 this month, has been a cornerstone of Barcelona's European dominance for nine seasons, winning four Champions League titles. Her ball-playing ability is precisely the sort of attribute London City have been drooling over as they attempt to develop an attractive playing style. Because who doesn't love a defender who can pass? Revolutionary.

Earps, a WSL veteran with stints at Manchester United, Reading, Bristol City, Birmingham City, and Doncaster Rovers Belles, won the Golden Glove in 2022-23 with United and helped them lift the Women's FA Cup in 2024. She brings top-level experience and, crucially, a fanbase that might actually fill a stadium.

The club, owned by American businesswoman Michele Kang, has been on a mission to snag A-list players to boost attendance and, you know, maybe win something. These signings are expected to do both, because in football, as in life, star power and trophies go hand in hand - or so they hope.