Everton Signs Jutta Rantala from Leicester City

Everton have struck a deal to sign Finland international striker Jutta Rantala from Leicester City, landing one of the most dangerous forwards in last season’s Women’s Super League.

Leicester confirmed Rantala still has a year left on her contract, so Everton are expected to pay a fee for the 26-year-old, who was the Foxes’ standout performer before injury halted her momentum.

Everton raid a relegated Leicester

This is not a one-off move. It’s a raid.

The Merseyside club have already dipped into Leicester’s squad this summer. France forward Noemie Mouchon arrived on a free, while Wales international Hannah Cain has returned to Everton from the Foxes. Now comes the headline act: Rantala, Leicester’s player of the season and top scorer in 2023-24.

She hit 13 goals in 48 appearances after joining from Swedish side Vittsjo GIK in 2023, quickly becoming the focal point of Leicester’s attack. Her finishing range, from distance and in the box, turned tight games and kept Leicester competitive.

Then came the setback. A knee injury in the following campaign checked her rise, but not her reputation. Even with time on the sidelines, she remained one of the most coveted forwards outside the traditional WSL elite.

Leicester’s relegation from the WSL in June has triggered a summer exodus. Rantala is set to become the sixth player to leave, a stark illustration of how brutally a drop can strip a squad of its best talent.

A proven international threat

Rantala’s pedigree stretches well beyond club level. For Finland, she has scored 10 goals in 36 appearances, offering a consistent threat in a side that leans heavily on her creativity and finishing.

She was part of the Finland squad at Euro 2025, further underlining her status as one of the key attacking figures in the Nordic game. Everton are not signing a project. They are signing a forward already tested on the international stage.

Phelan’s rebuild takes shape

Everton finished eighth in the WSL last season, a campaign overshadowed by the departure of manager Brian Sorensen. Stability was needed. Direction too.

Scott Phelan, confirmed as Sorensen’s permanent successor this summer, has wasted no time putting his stamp on the squad. Rantala will be the latest addition in a window that has already brought four new signings, with clear emphasis on adding firepower and experience.

For a side that often lacked a ruthless edge in front of goal, this move speaks loudly. Rantala offers goals, yes, but also presence: a forward who can lead a line, drag defenders around, and give Everton a cutting edge they have been missing.

Leicester’s loss is significant. Everton’s intent is clear.

The question now is simple: with Rantala in royal blue, how high can Everton aim in the new WSL season?