England Manager Mark Sampson dubbed Fran Kirby as his ‘Mini-Messi’ after her goal against Mexico at the Women’s World Cup in Canada, in which the Lionesses went on to collect bronze medals for finishing 3rd overall.
Kirby’s exploits during England’s World Cup campaign has led to Chelsea, Manchester City and Arsenal showing their interest in the Reading forward.
Currently, only Chelsea have confirmed they have contacted Reading with an offer for the 22 year old Lioness, with Manchester City and Arsenal having until Thursday’s transfer deadline to express any offer.
The pint-sized forward is Reading’s current top goal-scorer as they look towards promotion to the Women Super League 1.
Kirby is currently contracted to Reading until 2018 but a record transfer fee, believed to be between £40,000 and £60,000, could prise her away from the Women Super League 2 side.
Reading host Durham in the WSL 2 on Saturday 11 July as the domestic season resumes after the international break for the Women’s World Cup.