Manchester United midfielder Grace Clinton has joined Manchester City, with England team-mate Jess Park going the other way on transfer deadline day for the Women’s Super League.
Clinton, 22, had attracted interest from several clubs this summer with just a year remaining on her contract and no renewal agreed.
Rivals City were keen to bring her in and have allowed fellow England international Park to head to United in return, softening the blow.
Both players, who were part of England’s Euro 2025-winning squad, have signed four-year deals.
Neither club would disclose a transfer fee for the players, but it is believed City have paid more for Clinton, therefore transferring a net sum to United to cover the difference.
In a social media post earlier on Thursday night, Clinton said of her United departure: “This has been a very difficult decision for me because of the love I have for my team-mates and for you, the fans. However, I feel the future of the club and I aren’t on the same page.
“For me personally, the next step is about growth. I want to continue to develop and learn.”
On her move to City, she added: “I want to get better and grow and learn things in my career and I think there are amazing people here to learn things from. To play this style of football will be really enjoyable.”
Park, 23, completed a medical at Carrington on Wednesday evening which accelerated City’s talks with Clinton.
United see her as a high-quality addition and, while the deals are separate, Park is considered a strong replacement for Clinton.
“I wanted to break out of the boundaries and push myself to take on a new challenge. I’m the sort of person who wants to keep improving and pushing limits, and I think this is the perfect place for me to do that,” said Park.
“I’m a player who wants the ball, and when I get it I like to look up and try and make things happen for my team-mates, so I think I can fit in really well here. I know the ambitions are very high and I want to help the team push towards them.”
Marc Skinner’s side were keen to keep Clinton, but they also wanted to avoid losing her for free next year.
In previous seasons, United were criticised for losing striker Alessia Russo and goalkeeper Mary Earps for nothing after their contracts expired due to failed renewal negotiations.
