West Ham United have completed the signing of highly-rated England Under-20 defender Ria Bose from Portuguese side Sporting, in a move that strengthens the club’s defensive options ahead of the remainder of the 2025-26 season. The 19-year-old full-back has agreed to a two-and-a-half-year contract, with the transfer fee undisclosed.
Ria Bose: A Promising Talent Joins West Ham
Bose, who progressed through the youth systems at Brighton & Hove Albion and Chelsea, made the move to Portugal to gain first-team experience and quickly established herself as a key player for Sporting in the Liga BPI over the past season and a half.
Upon completing her move to East London, Bose expressed her excitement at joining the Hammers:
“I’m so happy to be joining West Ham United. I know that West Ham is going to help me progress as a player. This is a new beginning and the next step in my career. I bring a lot of energy. I’m an attacking full-back that likes to get up the pitch but I also pride myself on my defending too.”
Head Coach Rita Guarino Welcomes New Signing
Bose becomes the second signing under new head coach Rita Guarino, who took over the team in December. Guarino has been closely monitoring Bose’s development and is confident that the young defender will be an asset to West Ham both defensively and offensively.
“The club has been monitoring Ria’s progress for a little while now, so I’m delighted to be able to welcome her to the club,” Guarino said.
“Ria has a lot of potential. She’s a dynamic full-back who can impact the game in defence and attack. She has been a key player for the England youth sides over the last few years and I’m sure she will continue to progress in a West Ham shirt in years to come.”
What Ria Bose Brings to West Ham
As an attacking full-back, Bose is known for her pace, energy, and ability to support forward play while remaining defensively disciplined. Her experience with England youth teams at U-17, U-19, and U-20 levels has helped her develop strong tactical awareness and versatility on both flanks.
West Ham fans can expect Bose to make an immediate impact, adding depth to the defensive line while offering the ability to contribute in wide attacking positions. Her signing underscores Guarino’s ambition to blend youth development with first-team experience in shaping a competitive squad.
Looking Ahead: Bose’s Role at West Ham
Bose is likely to compete for a starting spot at right-back or left-back depending on team selection, and her attacking instincts could see her play an important role in West Ham’s Women’s Super League campaign.
Her move also represents an exciting step for English talent returning from overseas to continue their development at home. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how Bose adapts to the WSL’s physicality and tempo.
Key Facts:
- Player: Ria Bose, 19, England U-20 defender
- From Club: Sporting (Portugal)
- To Club: West Ham United
- Contract Length: Two-and-a-half years
- Position: Full-back (attacking and defensive capabilities)
- Previous Youth Clubs: Brighton & Hove Albion, Chelsea
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