This season, Liverpool took the opportunity to sign Denise O’Sullivan for their first team. However, new reports suggest that she could be leaving the WSL entirely.
After only six months with the club, it is believed that O’Sullivan will continue her career in the NWSL. Gotham FC are believed to be the favourites to sign her.
Her Time With Liverpool
The experienced midfielder joined Liverpool earlier this season for a club record fee of £300,000, after moving to Merseyside following nine years at North Carolina Courage in the NWSL.
During her short time with the Reds, the 32-year-old made thirteen appearances for the club. This included helping the team reach the Women’s FA Cup semi-finals.
She agreed a deal to play at St Helens Stadium in January 2026. This marked the Irish international’s first appearance in the WSL after playing in the USA for the majority of her career.
Previous Career
At the beginning of her career, the midfielder spent time playing in her home country with teams like Wilton United, Peamount United and Cork City. She then moved to Glasgow City.
The Republic of Ireland international then spent nine years playing with North Carolina Courage in the USA. During her time there, she captained the team for a successful second half of her time there.
Whilst in the USA, the experienced player won the NWSL Championship twice, as well as winning three NWSL Shields and two NWSL Challenge Cups.
Moving On From the WSL
After spending six months playing for Liverpool, The Times are now reporting that O’Sullivan may return to the USA to play in the NWSL once again. Her time with the Reds marked her first opportunity to play in the Barclays Women’s Super League.
The favourites to sign her are currently the New Jersey-based Gotham FC, with sources stating that this could be on a one-year-loan with an obligation-to-buy clause included.
It is believed that the move is for personal reasons for the 32-year-old, as she returns to the USA after having a successful nine years there so far.
What next for Liverpool?
The loss of an experienced player after such a short time is bound to be a blow for the Reds. After a disappointing last season, they need to make the most of this transfer window.
It comes after they failed to convert goalkeeper Jennifer Falk’s loan into a permanent contract. If Liverpool are going to improve next season, they need to sign some experienced talent.
While they have moved to recruit some younger talents, such as Mari Ward from Bristol City and a potential swoop for the out-of-contract Khiara Keating, Gareth Taylor’s side need to add more leadership figures in order to improve in an expanded WSL.
