Maria Sanchez demands shock trade just four months after signing biggest ever NWSL contract

Just four months after signing the then-biggest deal in NWSL history, Houston Dash star Maria Sanchez has reportedly requested a shock trade.

Mexico star Sanchez requests transfer
Secured then-record NWSL deal in December
Wants to leave Houston Dash just four months later

WHAT HAPPENED?

Sanchez put pen to paper on a new contract in Houston back in December, one worth an NWSL record $1.5 million (£1.2m). That has been eclipsed by deals signed since, but it remains one of the biggest in the league.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

However, despite seemingly committing to the Dash for the next three seasons with that contract, one which also has the option for a fourth year, ESPN reports that the Mexico star has now requested a shock move ahead of the NWSL's trade and transfer windows closing on Friday. The news comes just four games into the Dash's season.

WHAT THE HOUSTON DASH SAID

Asked for comment, a spokesperson for the Houston Dash told ESPN: "Maria Sanchez is under contract, a choice she made in free agency at the end of 2023."

DID YOU KNOW?

Sanchez's contract is signed with the NWSL, rather than the Dash, so it would remain in place if she joined a new team, meaning any interested parties would have to be able, and willing, to take on that bumper deal.

WHAT NEXT FOR SANCHEZ AND THE HOUSTON DASH?

The NWSL's trade and transfer windows close on Friday night, giving Sanchez only a few days to secure a requested move.