Bay FC sign Zambia hotshot Kundananji for world record fee

Bay FC have made Racheal Kundananji the most expensive player in the history of women's football. 

The Zambia striker, 23, has been handed a four-year deal by the National Women's Super League newcomers after leaving Madrid for a reported £685,000. 

Speaking to The Equalizer, she said: "I'm looking forward to having a great time in the US, a great time with the team. Bay FC is my new family. 

"It's always difficult in every stage. It's not going to be easy for me. 

"I'm not expecting that because I'm on the team, I'm playing 90 minutes. I'm expecting challenges and I'm expecting to overcome those challenges."

In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Kundananji added: "I'm super excited to join Bay FC. The is the opportunity I've been looking for. 

"Hopefully I'll have a great time with the team and we break so many records together. We're the champions, we're the chosen generation."

Bay FC will make their NWSL debut at Angel City on March 17 after being added to the league as an expansion team.  

And general manager Lucy Rushton cannot wait to see record signing Kundananji in action. She told the club's website: "We are delighted to add Racheal to our group.

"She is a tremendous talent with dynamic attacking qualities and an incredible physical profile who has produced for both club and country. 

"Racheal has a composure in front of goal and a natural ability to score with different types of finishes and from various locations. 

"We believe she will continue to grow and develop at our club, showcasing her skill set and adding to the array of exciting attacking talent we have here."

Kundananji scored 33 goals in 43 Liga F games for Madrid after joining the club in August 2022. 

She arrives hot on the heels of Jen Beattie, who left Arsenal for Bay FC earlier this month.