Fast-rising female footballer, Ayo Oke is set to join United States’ National Women Soccer League (NWSL) newcomers, Denver Summit FC in a record transfer fee of $450,000 early this month, Sports247 reports.
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The enterprising Nigerian-born defender, who is a USA under-23 international, is already being tipped to make a huge impression with the Denver-based side, in what will be their first NWSL campaign.
A report by ESPN added: “Oke’s transfer fee of roughly $450,000 will break the record for the highest incoming transfer fee for an American from outside the league.
“Oke has represented the USWNT at various youth levels. Though her main position is right-back, she possesses the versatility to play in midfield.
“The 22-year-old helped Pachuca win the 2025 Liga MX Femenil Clausura. Despite finishing level on points with Tigres, Pachuca lost out on finishing top of the 2025 Liga MX Apertura due to a tiebreaker.
“Oke will join a Denver squad that is being pieced together by general manager Curt Johnson. So far, nine players have been officially acquired by the club ahead of the 2026 NWSL season.”
Sports247 gathered further that the incoming defender, whose full name is Ayooluwa Naomi Oke, was born in Lawrenceville, Georgia, USA to Nigerian parents.
She previously played for University of California’s female squad, Los Angeles Bruins, but admires Real Mafrid’s England international, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Gotham FC’s Crystal Dunn and American legend, Abby Wambach.
Ayo’s soccer journey began as a teenager with Brookwood High School and Tophat SC, during which she emerged as Region Midfielder of the Year, All-Region honours in 2020-21 and All-America honours twice.
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