Adriana Leon departs Aston Villa for NWSL giants | OneFootball

Aston Villa have confirmed the departure of Canadian forward Adriana Leon to NWSL side San Diego Wave.

The January transfer window may be closed in Europe, but clubs in the United States are intensifying their business ahead of the 2025 season. Leon, who joined Villa from WSL rivals Manchester United in the summer of 2023, has now made the switch for an undisclosed fee.

She made 37 appearances for the Midlands club across all competitions, and scored nine goals in that time. This season, she has featured in 11 league matches and scored three goals.

Leon's move is subject to the receipt of her P-1 Visa and International Transfer Certificate (ITC). She has signed a two-year deal through to the end of the 2026 season, with a mutual option for the 2027 campaign.

"I'm incredibly excited to join San Diego Wave FC and can’t wait to get to work with my new teammates," Leon told San Diego Wave's club website. "This is a Club with big ambitions, and I'm ready to give everything I have to help the team succeed.

"The passion of the fans and the energy around this city make it an amazing place to play, and I’m looking forward to stepping on the field and representing San Diego with pride."

San Diego Wave's sporting director and general manager Camille Ashton added: "Adriana is a fantastic addition to our team, bringing a dynamic attacking presence and a wealth of experience at the highest levels.

"She is a proven playmaker with technical quality, creativity, and a relentless work ethic that will complement our style of play. Her experience in top leagues and on the international stage will be invaluable, and we're excited to welcome her and see the immediate impact she'll have both on and off the field."

San Diego Wave will begin their 2025 NWSL campaign away at Angel City on March 16, followed by their first home fixture against Utah Royals on March 2022. Villa, on the other hand, are struggling near the bottom of the WSL standings in 11th and return to action this weekend with the visit of Everton.