Above: new Leicester City signing Katie Keane, one of the Foxes two brand new players announced this week. Image: via Leicester City FC
By Alyce Collett (7/8/25)
Leicester City has finally gotten going in the summer transfer window, announcing their first two signings for the 2025 offseason.
The first of the signings was young Irish goal keeper Katie Keane, who makes the jump across to the Women’s Super League from League of Ireland club Shamrock Rovers.
Known for an impressive level of agility and reach, Keane may only be 19 years old but she comes to the WSL with plenty of senior experience.
She debuted in the League of Ireland at just 16 years old for Shelbourne FC, before moving across to Athlone Town and quickly establishing herself as the first choice keeper there. She went on to play every minute across 28 league and cup fixtures in 2024 and helped Athlone win the league title before crossing to the Rovers earlier this year.
She also has international experience, both at under age and senior level. She impressed in Ireland’s campaign at the 2024 Under 19 Euros – despite things going far from to plan for the Girls in Green – and Keane has been called up to Ireland’s senior squad on a number of occasions.
Speaking to the club on the news of her announcement, the young prodigy said “It’s incredible to be here and I can’t wait to get started. The stadium looks fantastic and I’m looking forward to being here with our supporters in September.
“Shot-stopping and communication are my strongest attributes. It’s important to encourage your team-mates and that’s what I’d like to bring to the team.”
Leicester City’s other signing is at the other end of the age scale, with experienced American defender Celeste Boureille also signing on for a one year contract at King Power Stadium.
Boureille has made over 200 senior appearances in a career that has taken her all over the world.
She first joined Portland Thorns in the NWSL in 2016, then after loan spells in Australia and France she moved to AC Milan in 2022. After a short stint in Italy she then moved on to join Montpellier and return to France, which was where she joined Leicester City from this week.
Speaking on Leicester City’s social media channels, Boureille said that “I haven’t experienced playing in England yet, but I know it’s one of the best leagues and competitions in the world.
“I am looking forward to challenging myself every day against the best players and hopefully helping the team as much as I can.”
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