Newcastle closing in on Liverpool forward Kiernan

What the report says

BBC Sport reports that Newcastle United are in advanced negotiations to sign Republic of Ireland forward Leanne Kiernan from Liverpool. The 27-year-old remains under contract at Liverpool for more than another year, so Newcastle, who play in the second tier, would be expected to pay a transfer fee if the move is completed.

Kiernan has been with Liverpool for five years and signed a contract extension in 2025. She has scored 23 goals in 76 appearances for the club, including a standout 2021-22 season when she was Liverpool’s leading scorer with 14 goals as they won the WSL 2 title. Before joining Liverpool, she played more than 40 times for West Ham in the Women’s Super League after starting her career at Shelbourne.

Her opportunities at Liverpool have recently been limited. BBC Sport says she started only once in the WSL under manager Gareth Taylor before spending the second half of last season on loan at Nottingham Forest. Liverpool have also strengthened their forward options this summer by signing Germany attacker Vivien Endemann from Wolfsburg.

For Newcastle, Kiernan would add experience and depth in attack as the club prepares to push for the WSL 2 title. BBC Sport notes Newcastle have already made six additions in a busy transfer window. Kiernan also brings international pedigree, having made 38 appearances for the Republic of Ireland since her debut in 2017.