Everton have signed Australia international forward Holly McNamara – the Blues beating a wide range of top clubs across Europe and the USA to secure the services of the two-time A-League Golden Boot winner.
The highly-rated 23-year-old joins on a free transfer after her contract expired at Melbourne City, and becomes the Women’s team’s fourth signing of the summer following the arrivals of forwards Noémie Mouchon and Hannah Cain, and attacker Zara Kramžar.
McNamara already boasts an impressive CV, being named A-League Women’s Young Player of the Year in 2022 before topping the scoring charts in consecutive seasons in 2024/25 and 2025/26.
Taking the coveted Everton No.9 shirt, the attacker also helped Australia claim a silver media at the 2026 Asia Cup alongside compatriot and now Toffees teammate Clare Wheeler.
Having made the switch from Down Under, McNamara pinpointed Everton’s mix of history and ambition, and the chance to play in the Women’s Super League under Scott Phelan at Goodison Park as key factors to her decision to choose the Blues ahead of many other clubs.
“It is unreal to be here, especially at Goodison Park,” McNamara told evertontv. “It is such a special stadium. I am very lucky to be here and I am super excited to get started. Everton have such a rich history that drew me to the Club.
“It is a good club that has great ambitions and a great project in the next few years – that got me excited. A big thing that drew me towards Everton was also the chance to play in the best league in the world.
“It is so competitive, any team can beat anyone. You can see the names across the division who are just amazing – they are the best players in the world. It is a huge thing for me to play in that best league in the world.
“I can't wait to try to do everything for this club to win. To do as well as we can. I am super excited to meet the fans and play games at Goodison Park.”
After signing for the Blues, McNamara was given a tour of the Grand Old Lady and was surprised as she entered the changing rooms to see the famous No.9 shirt hanging up with her name printed on it.
A prolific striker with pace, the Australian vowed she will play for the badge while looking to honour the number on the back of her shirt.
“I was shocked,” she said of her squad number. “I wasn't expecting it at all. Learning about the history of the number, I think it is huge. I am super privileged. I will not take it for granted for one second moving forward.
“I am delighted to have the number. When I saw it, it was such a sweet moment that makes me super proud of myself. Hopefully, I can put in the hard work to represent the number well.
“I would like to be known as a fighter. I think that's a good trait to have, and it is something the Club has as well. You can see that with all the history and everything the Club has done.
“It is so great to be here, and I really want to put my best foot forward. Working hard – that is a big thing for me. You can always improve your game. Hopefully, that is done here at this club.”
Technical Director of Everton, Nick Cox said: “We are delighted to welcome Holly to Everton. She was wanted by a number of other teams but was keen to work alongside Scott and represent such a historic club in what we hope is an exciting future ahead.
“Holly is a proven goalscorer and will undoubtedly strengthen our frontline. She is an excellent talent who has already tasted success and showcased her qualities despite her young age.
“We are confident plenty more is to come in the royal blue of Everton in front of our fans at Goodison Park.”
