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Published 10:27 30 Jul 2026 BST
Updated 12:04 30 Jul 2026 BST

Republic of Ireland internationals Jessie Stapleton and Jess Ziu have signed for Leicester City, with Stapleton and Ziu joining the second-tier WSL2 side from West Ham United on undisclosed fees.
Stapleton, 21, has committed to a three-year contract, while Ziu, 24, has signed a two-year deal. The pair link up with fellow Republic of Ireland internationals already at the Foxes, becoming the latest of Carla Ward's squad on the move in a busy summer. Leicester were relegated from the Women's Super League after a play-off defeat to Charlton Athletic last season and will target an immediate return to the top flight.
Ziu arrived at West Ham in March 2022 after starring for Shelbourne in the League of Ireland Women's Premier Division, but her time in London was hampered by two ACL injuries across 23 appearances, including a loan spell at Bristol City. There is more in our Irish sport coverage.
Ziu struck an upbeat note on the switch to the King Power Stadium:
"The plan and structure the club has in place is really exciting. I can't wait to get the jersey on and play in front of all the fans at King Power Stadium."
As The42 reported, midfielder Ziu will look to reignite her career at Leicester, while defender Stapleton continues her rise after breaking through at West Ham.
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