Crystal Palace Football Club has made a significant move in the January transfer window by securing the services of experienced midfielder Hayley Ladd from Everton. This acquisition, confirmed on Sunday, January 11, 2026, sees the Welsh international join the Eagles on a two-and-a-half-year deal. Ladd's arrival is poised to bolster Crystal Palace's ambitions, particularly their push for promotion back to the esteemed Barclays Women's Super League, following a period of strong performance by the team.
Crystal Palace Welcomes Veteran Midfielder Hayley Ladd
In a strategic move to reinforce their squad, Crystal Palace announced the signing of Hayley Ladd, a seasoned midfielder, from Everton. The official club website released the news on Sunday morning, January 11, 2026, confirming that the 32-year-old talent has committed to a two-and-a-half-year contract. Ladd brings a wealth of experience, having spent the previous year with Everton and a notable five-and-a-half seasons at Manchester United. During her time with the Red Devils, she clinched an Adobe Women’s FA Cup title and was instrumental in the club's challenge at the top tier of the Barclays Women’s Super League. Her extensive career also includes stints with prominent clubs like Arsenal, Kokkola Futis 10, Coventry City, Bristol, and Birmingham City. On the international front, Ladd has proudly represented Wales on 111 occasions, netting three goals for her country. Her arrival marks Crystal Palace's inaugural signing of the current transfer window. Expressing her excitement about joining the club, Ladd stated, "It feels amazing. I’m so glad to be here. It’s obviously a club that I’ve admired for a long time, so I’m thrilled to be here and ready to get started." Her integration is expected to provide a significant boost as Crystal Palace aims to sustain its recent good form and vie for an immediate return to the Barclays Women’s Super League.
This signing underscores Crystal Palace's clear intent to strengthen their team with proven talent. Hayley Ladd's rich experience and leadership qualities could be pivotal in their campaign. Her enthusiasm to contribute immediately speaks volumes about her dedication and the club's attractive vision. This transfer not only enhances the squad's depth but also signals a promising outlook for the remainder of the season, potentially inspiring both current players and the fan base.