Watford Sign Prolific Striker Saoirse Noonan on Free Transfer
Watford have moved decisively in the market, securing the signing of former Celtic forward Saoirse Noonan on a free transfer, adding serious firepower to their attack ahead of the new campaign.
The Golden Girls confirmed the deal on their official website earlier today, bringing in a player whose numbers in Scotland demand attention. Noonan leaves Celtic after two goal-laden seasons in Glasgow, her contract with the club expiring earlier this summer.
A ruthless record at Celtic
At Celtic, Noonan was far more than a reliable presence up front; she was the focal point of their attack. The 27-year-old scored 57 goals in 74 appearances, a return that underlines why she finished as the club’s top scorer in back-to-back seasons.
Defences in Scotland never really worked her out. Across the last two campaigns she produced five hat-tricks, repeatedly turning tight games into one-sided affairs almost on her own. Her form helped Celtic lift the Scottish Gas Women’s Scottish Cup last season, while she also gained valuable experience on the European stage in the UEFA Women’s Champions League.
Those numbers are not inflated by cameos or late substitute appearances. They reflect a striker who knows where to be, when to arrive, and how to finish.
From Cork to Watford via Durham and Celtic
Noonan’s journey to Watford has been steady, not rushed. She began her career with Cork City in the SSE Airtricity League Women’s Premier Division, emerging as one of the standout attacking talents in Ireland before earning a move to Shelbourne, where she enjoyed two separate spells.
Her first taste of English football came with Durham, where she spent two years in the Barclays WSL2. That stint gave her a grounding in the physical and tactical demands of the English game, experience that should ease her transition back into the league.
Now, with her Celtic chapter closed, Watford have stepped in at the right time. They are not taking a gamble on potential; they are signing a proven goalscorer in her prime.
International pedigree
On the international stage, Noonan has already broken through for the Republic of Ireland. She has been capped 14 times and scored two goals, adding another layer of pedigree to Watford’s front line.
Those appearances underline how highly she is rated at national-team level and give Watford a player accustomed to high-pressure fixtures and demanding environments.
Statement signing in a busy window
Noonan becomes Watford’s fourth signing of the summer transfer window, part of a clear plan to inject quality and edge into the squad. Each addition has nudged expectations a little higher; this one moves the needle again.
Watford wanted goals and experience. In Saoirse Noonan, they have signed both in one player.
