San Diego Wave FC signed Brazilian forward Ludmila from Chicago Stars FC. The deal costs 735,000 EUR, with possible extras up to 920,000 EUR.
San Diego Wave FC got Brazilian player Ludmila from Chicago Stars FC. The transfer fee is 735,000 EUR. This is a big amount for Chicago Stars. It is the second highest in the league. Only last year's 1.15 million EUR for Jayden Shaw was higher. San Diego signed her to a three-year contract through 2028. She will take an international spot on the team in 2026.
Chicago Stars can get another 185,000 EUR if Ludmila plays well. That would make the total 920,000 EUR. Chicago Stars also keeps a 10% share if she moves again later.
Ludmila is 31 years old. She scored 81 goals in 185 games for clubs like Río Preto, São José, Atlético Madrid, and Chicago Stars. She started in Brazil with CA Juventus at age 16. She joined NWSL with Chicago Stars in July 2024. There she scored 13 goals in 31 games. In 2025, she got 10 goals and was close to winning the top scorer award. She set a league record with the fastest hat trick, three goals in 10 minutes and 9 seconds. She has 63 caps for Brazil with 6 goals. She won silver at the 2025 Paris Olympics.
Ludmila is happy to join San Diego. She said, "I admired this team and loved the supporters and energy of the city. I came here to give my best and win trophies." She also said, "From the moment Cami and the organization showed interest in me, my focus was clear. I wanted to play for this team and this city. I didn't come here just to play. I came to give my best and fight to win trophies. I'm very excited to show my football in front of all the supporters and score many goals in these colors."
The money helps Chicago Stars build their team. New coach Martin Sjögren is positive. He talked about new forwards Ivonne Chacón and Ryan Gareis. Young players Jameese Joseph and Micayla Johnson will help too. Experienced midfielders like Brianna Pinto add strength. They hope Mallory Swanson returns later. This can make a good team.
