Birmingham City secures goalkeeper Sophie Baggaley to bolster promoted squad

Newly promoted Birmingham City has signed goalkeeper Sophie Baggaley as a free agent following her departure from Brighton. The 29-year-old returns to the organization where she joined at age six and made her senior debut in 2014.

Baggaley has agreed to a two-year contract that includes an option for a third year. Her acquisition provides Birmingham with a seasoned professional as the club prepares for the financial and competitive demands of top-flight football.

The goalkeeper arrives after spells at Bristol City and Manchester United, having joined Brighton in 2023. She made 42 appearances for the south coast club and won player of the season in her first campaign. Her playing time subsequently decreased after the arrival of Nigerian keeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, prompting Brighton to confirm her exit last month upon her contract's expiration in June.

Although she has yet to earn a senior international cap, Baggaley has been a consistent presence in England squads since 2025. Her extensive background offers immediate stability for Birmingham's defensive unit.

Baggaley pointed to the structural and financial commitment Birmingham is now making to the women's game. "The club has been through so many different stages over the last few years, but it's clear how much Birmingham has invested in the women's team and I'm really excited to be part of that," she stated. She also noted that the organization helped build the foundations of her career, adding that she hopes to give a little bit back.

Manager Amy Merricks highlighted the operational value of the new signing. "Sophie knows what it means to represent Birmingham City and she's returning as a far more experienced player than when she was here," Merricks said. The manager added that Baggaley has built up a lot of WSL experience and will add real quality, leadership and competition to the goalkeeping group.