The move comes despite Shaw previously being close to extending her stay at the club in March. At that stage, she had indicated a willingness to remain at City, but talks eventually ran into complications—most notably around the length of the proposed extension and other structural terms. While both parties are said to be disappointed, the agreement to part ways now appears mutual in tone, if not in outcome.
A source familiar with the situation said City “were not able to match terms offered by rival teams,” a factor that ultimately shifted the balance of negotiations.
Shaw has been central to Manchester City’s success this season, scoring 19 goals in 21 Women’s Super League appearances and leading the club to their first WSL title in a decade. Her impact has been decisive, both in terms of goals and leadership, and she remains one of the most popular figures among supporters.
She is “on course to win the WSL’s Golden Boot for a third consecutive season,” underlining her dominance in front of goal and reinforcing her reputation as one of the most consistent strikers in the women’s game.
Chelsea are widely expected to lead the race for her signature, with reports suggesting they are prepared to offer around £1m per year. However, competition is fierce. Barcelona, multiple clubs in the National Women’s Soccer League, and ambitious WSL side London City Lionesses are all believed to be monitoring her situation closely.
Shaw, now 29, is regarded by many observers as “the world’s most in-form central striker,” a label supported by her accolades. She was named both the Professional Footballers’ Association Women’s Players’ Player of the Year and the Women’s Super League Player of the Season for 2023–24, cementing her status at the top of the game.
Despite the growing transfer speculation, efforts were made to keep discussions private while City pursued silverware. Shaw herself is understood to have been keen to avoid off-field uncertainty disrupting the team’s title push.
City’s campaign has already reached its climax, with the club confirmed as WSL champions after Arsenal were held by Brighton. They now turn their attention to domestic cup action, with Shaw set to face potential future suitors Chelsea in Sunday’s Women’s FA Cup semi-final at Stamford Bridge. Their final league fixture follows next weekend against West Ham.
As the season closes, both player and club are preparing for a significant transition—one that will mark the end of one of the most prolific partnerships in recent WSL history.