Swedish Club Acquires Chelsea Women’s Highly Rated Academy Forward for Short-Term Loan

Over the past month, Linköping FC has lost its top two scorers to new teams, including one who recently signed with Liverpool. In response to these departures, the Damallsvenskan club has secured a short-term loan deal for 18-year-old striker Aimee Claypole from Chelsea FC Women, who will remain with Linköping until the end of the season.

The acquisition was first reported by @journalism_rp, a known women’s football journalist, and confirmed by both clubs on Tuesday morning. Claypole, who debuted in the Women’s Super League in March 2023 against Brighton & Hove Albion, previously spent a loan stint with Lewes in the Women’s Championship last January.

During her time there, she made a huge impact, contributing five goals and assists in 11 appearances. In the club’s announcement, Claypole expressed her enthusiasm for the move: “I feel very hopeful and ready to start! This is a big step for my development and a chance to gain experience,” she said. “Linköping feels like the right club for me right now.”

Since joining Chelsea in 2015 and signing her first professional contract in November 2023, Claypole has been highly regarded. Her contract runs until the end of 2025, with an option for an additional year.

Despite stiff competition, Linköping managed to secure the promising forward, who may have the opportunity to feature prominently next season if she continues to develop. After a promising stint in the Championship, this loan move aligns well with her growth trajectory.

Linköping head coach Rafael Roldán emphasized the importance of a careful selection process, stating, “We have scouted many strikers in recent weeks and for us, it was important that we did not rush anything. It is important to get the right profile with the qualities we want.”

Claypole will wear the No. 9 shirt and is expected to play a vital role in both the Damallsvenskan and the UEFA Women’s Champions League. Linköping’s first qualifying match is against Sparta Prague on September 4. If victorious, they will face the winner of the Paris FC vs. First Vienna FC match on September 7.

Following a challenging start to the season, Linköping has shown improvement, winning five of their last seven league games. This Saturday, they will host IFK Norrköping DFK, aiming to climb the table with a positive result.