What happened?

Jess Ziu's transfer to Leicester City has been confirmed, with the Republic of Ireland international leaving West Ham United permanently after four years in east London.

Why it matters for West Ham United

West Ham announced Ziu's departure on Wednesday, bringing an end to a difficult spell in which the midfielder made 23 appearances while recovering from two anterior cruciate ligament injuries.

What comes next?

Ziu joined West Ham in the summer of 2022 after establishing herself as one of Ireland's leading young talents. However, two serious knee injuries restricted her opportunities with the Hammers. The 24-year-old still returned to senior action and represented the club across the Women's Super League and domestic cup competitions.

West Ham sent Ziu to Bristol City on loan for the first half of last season as she searched for regular football. She made four appearances before returning to east London in January.

A permanent move to Leicester now offers the midfielder an opportunity to rebuild her momentum. The Foxes will compete in Women's Super League 2 after losing their top-flight status last season.

Ziu becomes the second Republic of Ireland international to leave West Ham for Leicester this summer. ReadWestHam reported on Sunday that defender Jessie Stapleton had completed the same move.

The two players were West Ham teammates for three seasons and received Republic of Ireland call-ups together earlier this year.

Ziu's departure continues the restructuring of Rita Guarino's squad before the new WSL campaign.

West Ham have thanked the midfielder for her contribution and wished her well at Leicester.

Neither club has disclosed a transfer fee or the length of Ziu's Leicester contract.

As of our verified live data (as of 30 Jul 2026), League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 18th in Premier League, 39 pts, 10W-9D-19L from 38 games, recent form WLLLW.

This transfer marks a significant blow to West Ham's midfield options, with Ziu's departure leaving a void that will need to be filled in the coming weeks.

The Hammers are currently 46 points behind leaders Arsenal in the title race, with 46 goals scored and 65 conceded this season, resulting in a -19 goal difference.

Image prompt: A photograph of Jess Ziu walking off the pitch at the London Stadium, with her West Ham United kit on, in a moment of reflection, as the team's fans look on in disappointment.

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