Man Utd near deal for Mexico's Bernal

What the report says

Manchester United are reported to be close to signing Mexico international Rebeca Bernal from Washington Spirit, in a move that would add experience and versatility to their squad ahead of the Women’s Super League season. BBC Sport says the 29-year-old can operate either in central defence or midfield, and that the transfer would make her the first Mexican player to appear in the WSL.

According to the BBC, Bernal joined Washington Spirit from CF Monterrey in February 2025 and has gone on to make 41 appearances for the U.S. club. She also helped Spirit win the 2025 NWSL Challenge Cup. Her absence from Spirit’s recent match against Bay FC was described by the club as an “excused absence,” which added to signs that a deal may be close.

Bernal has long been a key figure for Mexico, with 65 international caps and seven goals. BBC Sport highlighted her winning goal in the 2023 Pan American Games women’s football final, when Mexico beat Chile to secure the title for the first time. The reported transfer comes as United prepare for their WSL opener under new manager Eva Olid, with the club already having added Andrea Medina, Janina Leitzig and Monica Jusu Bah this summer.