Tottenham Women have completed the club-record signing of France international defender Alice Sombath from OL Lyonnes.
The 22-year-old has joined Martin Ho’s side on a permanent transfer, subject to international clearance and a work permit.
Tottenham have not disclosed the fee. However, it exceeds the previous record of more than £375,000 paid to sign Signe Gaupset earlier this year.
Sombath becomes Spurs’ sixth signing of a major summer rebuild following the arrivals of Shekiera Martinez, Caitlin Dijkstra, Kirsty Hanson, Selma Panengstuen and Victoria Pelova.
Tottenham Women break transfer record for Sombath
The official Tottenham announcement describes Sombath as an aggressive defender who is comfortable in possession and competitive in individual duels.
She can operate at centre-back or right-back, giving Ho greater flexibility across his defensive line. Sombath also brings considerable experience despite her age, having made 106 senior appearances for Lyonnes.
The defender won five consecutive French league titles and formed part of the squad which lifted the Women’s Champions League in 2022. She has also earned 16 senior caps for France since making her debut in November 2024.
Spurs have focused on signing players who can develop while strengthening the current squad. ReadTottenham previously examined the club’s statement signing of former Arsenal midfielder Victoria Pelova.
Sombath’s passing ability should suit Ho’s plans to build attacks from defence. She is also strong in the air and can carry possession forward when opponents apply pressure.
Tottenham finished fifth in the Women’s Super League last season, four points behind Manchester United. Breaking their transfer record underlines the club’s ambition to close that gap and challenge for European qualification.
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