Deborah-Anne De La Harpe will join a club in Europe after Sydney FC agreed the transfer of the Liberty A-League Premiership and Championship-winning defender.
De La Harpe was part of Sydney’s triumphant 2022-23 season, which saw the Sky Blues sweep domestic honours in her first season with the club.
After 15 appearances for Ante Juric’s side, the Republic of Ireland international – who made her debut against China this year – has now earned a move abroad after Sydney FC Men’s Academy players Max Vartuli (Aab Aalborg) and Rawley St. John (Stuttgart) also sealed overseas transfers this week.
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The 23-year-old departs Sydney alongside striker Rola Badawiya, who scored one goal in nine A-League Women appearances last season.
“Not everyone gets to play alongside some of their best friends, let alone win trophies with them,” De La Harpe said.
“I’m grateful for the season and everything I have learned which has no doubt prepared me for this next chapter in my football career.”
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Former Sky Blues star Remy Siemsen also secured a transfer to Women’s Super League (WSL) outfit Leicester City earlier this year as De La Harpe follows in the footsteps of Caitlin Foord, Alanna Kennedy, Chloe Logarzo, Claire Wheeler, Ally Green and Amy Harrison, who have all gone to play in Europe via the Sky Blues.
“I’m delighted for Deborah-Anne to be able to progress her career in this way and take on a new challenge in Europe,” Juric added.
“She deserves it and I’m very pleased Sydney FC can once again be the catalyst to provide a young Australian player with a successful pathway to European professional football.”
Sydney have already lost key duo Madison Haley and Rachel Lowe during the off-season, while the defending champions “remain in discussions” with Matildas star Cortnee Vine.
