Nicole Payne, the talented defender with Nigerian descent, has successfully finalized her transfer to French Division 1 Féminine giants Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
The 22-year-old completed a three-year contract until June 2026, departing the USA’s collegiate team West Virginia Mountaineers to join the ranks of the 2020/21 French champions.
Born in the USA to Nigerian parents, Payne expressed her elation at achieving a lifelong dream by signing with PSG.
“It’s something I’ve always dreamed of,” Payne shared in an interview with the club’s official website. “I became a professional player when I was a teenager, and I’ve grown up playing football since I was four, so to experience a moment like this is very special. I’m really grateful to be here.”
Payne’s football journey commenced early, and she has represented the USA at various youth levels, including U15, U16, U17, and U18. However, in 2021, she received the call-up to the Nigerian national team, the Super Falcons, marking a significant step in her international career. As of now, she has earned two caps for Nigeria.
The 22-year-old full-back brings her exceptional skills and versatility to PSG, a club renowned for its success in women’s football.
With her signing, PSG adds another promising talent to their roster, further strengthening their squad for future challenges in the French league and beyond.