Washington Spirit defender Rebeca Bernal is nearing a transfer to Manchester United, ahead of Thursday’s Women’s Super League transfer deadline.
The 28-year-old Mexico international, who is capable of playing in both in defence and in midfield, would become United’s fourth signing of the summer following goalkeeper Janina Leitzig, defender Andrea Medina and winger Monica Jusu Bah if a deal can be completed.
Bernal remains under contract with Washington through the 2027 season, meaning United need to reach an agreement with the Spirit to acquire her.
She joined the Spirit from Liga MX Femenil powerhouse Monterrey in February 2025, signing a three-year contract after the NWSL side paid an undisclosed fee. It was Bernal’s first move away from Monterrey, where she had spent eight seasons and played over 250 games, helping the club win four Liga MX Femenil titles.
Bernal immediately added another trophy in the United States, winning the 2025 NWSL Challenge Cup in her first match with the Spirit. Since arriving in Washington, she has appeared in over 40 matches across all competitions, scoring two goals. Primarily a centre-back, Bernal has also provided the Spirit with flexibility in midfield.
She also remains a central figure for Mexico, having made more than 60 senior international appearances. Bernal helped Mexico win gold at the 2023 Pan American Games and earned Best XI honors at the 2024 Concacaf W Gold Cup.
There was already a significant clue about Bernal’s future before reports emerged: she was missing from Washington’s match against Bay FC at Audi Field on Sunday. The NWSL’s official availability report listed Bernal as unavailable due to an “excused absence” rather than an injury.
Bernal also did not play in Washington’s 1-0 loss to Orlando Pride on Aug. 23, when she was an unused substitute. She had previously played 90 minutes against Angel City on Aug. 17 and scored against North Carolina Courage earlier this month.
It has been a summer of change at United with a number of first-team players departing and Marc Skinner leaving his role as head coach after five years. He has been replaced by Eva Olid.
This article originally appeared in The Athletic.
Washington Spirit, Manchester United WFC, NWSL, Women’s Soccer, Transfer News
2026 The Athletic Media Company
About the Author
