Spurs smash women’s record with Lyonnes defender Sombath

Tottenham Hotspur have shattered their women’s transfer record to secure France defender Alice Sombath from Lyonnes, a move that underscores their bold ambition to disrupt the Women’s Super League hierarchy. The 22-year-old arrives for an undisclosed fee, eclipsing the £375,000 paid for Signe Gaupset in January, and becomes Spurs’ sixth summer signing as they target a top-four finish. With Martin Ho’s side already bolstered by Shekiera Martinez, Kirsty Hanson, Victoria Pelova, Caitlin Dijkstra and Selma Panengstuen, the club’s proactive recruitment signals intent to challenge the established elite.

A calculated gamble on defensive steel

Sombath’s arrival is a statement of intent from Tottenham, who finished fifth in the WSL last season—four points adrift of Manchester United in fourth but 19 behind champions Manchester City. The France international arrives with a decorated CV, having spent six years at Lyonnes, where she won five league titles, two Coupe de France trophies, and the Champions League in her second season, albeit with limited final appearances. Her profile aligns with Ho’s vision: an aggressive, possession-adept defender who thrives in duels and demands intensity from her teammates. “She has already shown real maturity in her performances,” Ho said. “We believe she has all the qualities to continue developing into a top player within our environment.”

Sombath’s competitive edge was a key factor in Spurs’ recruitment, with the club prioritising players who could elevate their physicality and technical output. Her ability to play out from the back while pressing high mirrors the modern demands of top-flight football, a trait that could help Tottenham tighten their defensive structure. The deal also arrives early enough to allow a full pre-season integration, a luxury Ho’s squad has not always enjoyed. With six priority targets secured, the north London club have laid the groundwork for a sustained push up the table.

Lyonnes’ loss, Spurs’ gain

Sombath’s exit from Lyonnes follows a familiar pattern for the eight-time European champions, who have repeatedly provided talent to rival clubs. Drafted from Paris Saint-Germain in 2020, she quickly adapted to professional football, earning her first Champions League winners’ medal in 2022 despite limited minutes in the final. Her departure leaves Lyonnes with a defensive void to fill, though their depth has historically allowed them to absorb such losses. For Tottenham, the signing represents a rare opportunity to poach a player of Sombath’s calibre from one of Europe’s most dominant teams.

The move also reflects a broader trend in women’s football, where ambitious mid-tier clubs are increasingly targeting established internationals to accelerate their development. Tottenham’s spending spree—amplified by their record-breaking fee—positions them as serious contenders, though the true test will come in competitive fixtures. Their fifth-place finish last season was an improvement on their 11th-place finish the year prior, but the gap to the top remains significant. Sombath’s arrival, however, adds a layer of tactical flexibility that could help bridge that divide.

Ho’s project takes shape

Martin Ho’s tenure at Tottenham has been defined by a clear philosophy: prioritise technical quality, physicality, and a hunger to improve. Sombath embodies all three traits, with Ho highlighting her “aggressive” defensive style and “ambition to keep improving every day.” The club’s early recruitment—completed before the summer transfer window’s peak—suggests a structured approach, one that avoids the pitfalls of rushed deals. With six signings already on board, Tottenham have the foundation to build a squad capable of challenging for European qualification.

Yet the challenge extends beyond transfers. The WSL remains a league of haves and have-nots, where Manchester City and Chelsea’s financial muscle often dictates the narrative. Tottenham’s rise will depend on more than just signings; squad cohesion and tactical execution will be critical. Still, Sombath’s arrival sends a message to the rest of the division: Tottenham are no longer content with mid-table obscurity. As transfer speculation swirls around other clubs, Spurs’ proactive approach sets a new benchmark for ambition in the women’s game.

For Sombath, the move represents a chance to prove herself in a competitive league, where every game is a test. “The league is very competitive, every game is a tough game and that’s what I’m most excited about,” she said. “I saw that Spurs had a very good season last year. My qualities can bring something to the team, even though I know they already have a lot.” If she delivers, Tottenham’s record-breaking gamble could pay dividends sooner than expected.