Alyssa Thompson: Chelsea sign USA forward for club record fee

“Being able to play with players that are the best in the world is an amazing opportunity at such a young age, and I want to learn, grow and develop a lot.

“I feel like Chelsea is such an amazing environment to do that in.”

Chelsea’s previous transfer record was the £900,000 they paid for USA defender Naomi Girma from San Diego Wave in January.

Thompson has scored six goals in 16 National Women’s Soccer League games this season. She has three goals in 22 games for the USA.

Chelsea striker Mayra Ramirez has been ruled out until January with a hamstring injury, while England forward Lauren James will miss the WSL season opener against Manchester City at Stamford Bridge at 19:30 BST on Friday.