Burnley have pulled off a coup in the women’s game, securing the free transfer signing of 28-year-old forward Charlie Wellings ahead of their debut Barclays WSL2 season. The Clarets announced the deal via their official club website on Wednesday, with Wellings penning a one-year contract at Turf Moor and a club option for a further 12 months.
What’s the deal?
Wellings arrives at Burnley after two years at Nottingham Forest, where she won the FA Women’s National League Northern Premier Division in 2024/25 and rattled in 30 goals across 52 appearances. The forward’s WSL pedigree includes spells at Birmingham City, Bristol City and Reading, where she lifted the 2017 Adobe Women’s FA Cup with Birmingham. Burnley, rooted to 19th in the Premier League with 22 points from 38 games and a goal difference of -37, are assembling a squad to compete in WSL2.
Why does Wellings fit Burnley’s project?
Wellings brings Premier League-level experience to a Burnley side chasing an instant return to the top flight. Her trophy haul includes the 2017 FA Cup and a league title with Forest last season, while her cup final strike for Birmingham underlines her big-game nous. The Clarets are integrating their women’s team into the same elite facilities as the men’s side at Barnfield Training Centre, a selling point Wellings highlighted in her first remarks as a Burnley player.
“Having been in talks for quite a while, I’m happy to get it over the line,” Wellings said. “The ambition of the club shows through-we’re in and around the same facilities as the men’s team every day, which are unbelievable. I’ve had a few battles against Burnley over the years, and it’s always been a good game. I’m happy to be on this side of things now.”
What’s next for Burnley’s women’s team?
Wellings will slot into a Burnley attack that managed 38 goals this season but shipped 75, leaving them 63 points adrift of Arsenal in the title race. The Clarets kick off their WSL2 campaign with a home date against Preston on December 5, 2026, as they chase an immediate bounce-back from relegation. With the squad still taking shape, Wellings’ arrival marks another step toward competitive stability in the women’s game at Turf Moor.
