London City Lionesses have signed France forward Kadidiatou Diani on a three-year deal for a fee exceeding £500,000.
The 31-year-old announced her departure from European giants Lyon on Monday despite having a year remaining on her contract.
London City had been in advanced discussions for several weeks and, while other European clubs were interested, Diani chose a move to the Women’s Super League (WSL).
Diani spent three seasons at Lyon after moving from Paris St-Germain in 2023 and scored 41 goals in 93 appearances.
“It is an opportunity for me to discover a new country, a new city, a new team, and I can’t wait to start this next chapter,” said Diani.
“It’s an independent club and very ambitious. It’s something which is quite rare in women’s football and something I believe in a lot.
“We have objectives – to win as many matches as possible and qualify for the Champions League. Winning a trophy for this club would be brilliant too.
“I think we are going to experience a very beautiful season.”
At PSG, Diani won two French Cups and a league title but missed out on Women’s Champions League success with Lyon, losing twice in the final.
She suffered a knee injury in the semi-finals which meant she missed the final last season as Barcelona beat Lyon 2-0.
Diani will be reunited with London City owner Michele Kang, who also owns Lyon as well as Washington Spirit.
London City finished sixth in their debut campaign in the WSL and have had an impressive transfer window so far.
They have made six additions, including two-time Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas, ex-England goalkeeper Mary Earps and Spain defender Mapi Leon.