Mayra Ramírez signs for Chelsea: how much did Colombia star cost?

Levante forward Mayra Ramírez has joined Chelsea for what the Spanish club say is a world-record fee in the women’s game.

Ramírez “honoured” to sign on at Chelsea

Ramírez has signed a four-and-a-half year contract with the English champions, bringing to an end a two-season spell on the east coast of Spain, where she scored 19 goals in 40 appearances.

“I am very honoured to be a part of Chelsea,” the Colombia international said. “To be part of such a huge club is a dream come true and one I’ve had since I was a little girl.”

Ramírez added: “I am desperate to be part of it and play here very soon with my teammates. I will always give 100% and always give my best for every team I play for.

“I feel I can bring strength, speed, and goals to the team. I am confident I can do well, help the team achieve what we want this season, and be one of the top teams - if not the best - in Europe.”

How much has Ramírez cost Chelsea?

In a statement announcing Ramírez’s departure, Levante said that Chelsea have agreed to a deal worth €500,000: €450,000 up front for the 24-year-old, plus a further €50,000 in incentivised add-ons.

The add-ons, which Las Granotas say the player “is expected to trigger”, include a requirement that she appear in 30% of Chelsea’s games.

The previous world-record transfer in the women’s game was England midfielder Keira Walsh’s 2022 move from Manchester City to Barça, which is widely reported to have been worth €470,000: a €400,000 initial fee plus €70,000 in variables.

Before Ramírez, Chelsea’s record signing was Denmark midfielder Pernille Harder, who cost the West Londoners £250,000 when she signed from VfL Wolfsburg in 2020.

Ramírez to bring “physicality, athleticism” to Chelsea

Capped 30 times by Colombia, Ramírez was a key player for the South Americans as Las Cafeteras reached the Women’s World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in their history in 2023.

“Mayra is a dynamic forward who can play anywhere across the front line,” Chelsea general manager Paul Green said. “We have watched her develop in Spain over the last few years and believe her style is going to suit playing in England.

“She has great physicality, athleticism, and a good goalscoring record. We’re all excited with what she can bring to the squad now and in the long term.”

Chelsea currently sit top of the English Women’s Super League, three points clear of Manchester City.

Coached by Emma Hayes, who is to take over as USWNT boss at the end of the season, the Blues have also reached the quarter-finals of the Champions League and the last 16 of the FA Cup.

Get more women’s soccer news in our dedicated section.