Liverpool has finalized the acquisition of North Carolina Courage captain and Republic of Ireland international Denise O’Sullivan, as announced by both clubs on Saturday.
The 31-year-old midfielder leaves the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) club as its all-time leader in appearances, having played 186 matches over her nine seasons with North Carolina.
O’Sullivan joins a Liverpool side currently at the bottom of the Women’s Super League (WSL) table, still in search of their first win after 12 matches.
“This means a lot to me. It’s a proud moment for both myself and my family, who are now just a 40-minute flight away,” said O’Sullivan on Liverpool’s website.
“Liverpool is a fantastic club, and joining a team of this caliber comes with significant responsibility. I’m eager to get to work and give my all every day.”
O’Sullivan has played a key role in the Courage’s success, contributing to seven league titles—three Shields, two Championships, and two Challenge Cups—since joining in the inaugural NWSL season.
She was appointed captain at the start of the 2023 season.
“It’s difficult to express what this club has meant to me,” stated O’Sullivan in a message from the Courage. “North Carolina will always be my home, and I am eternally grateful to the Club, my teammates, and the amazing fans for their unwavering support.”
“I’m transitioning to a new challenge now, but I will always be part of Courage Country. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything.”
O’Sullivan, who has earned 128 caps for Ireland, joins Liverpool just a day after the club announced the loan signing of Martha Thomas from Tottenham.
The Scotland international, who moved to Spurs from Manchester United in 2023, has agreed to join Liverpool for the rest of the season.
PA contributed to this report.