Nigerian Forward Joy Omewa Clears WSL Governing Body Criteria, Draws Interest from Brighton, West Ham, and Aston Villa

Nigerian striker Joy Omewa has officially met the minimum points required to secure a Governing Body Endorsement (GBE) to play in the English Women’s Super League (WSL). Although she did not qualify for an automatic pass—reserved for players appearing in at least 80% of Nigeria’s matches over the past one to two years—Omewa earned the necessary 24 points through her impressive club and continental performances.

The GBE system, which regulates the transfer of foreign players into the WSL, awards points based on league standard, international appearances, continental competitions, club achievements, and progress in continental tournaments. Omewa secured 12 points from her appearances with Denmark’s Band 1 league side Fortuna Hjorring, featuring in 90–100% of her team’s matches. She added two points for nearly full participation in the UEFA Europa League and ten points for helping Fortuna Hjorring clinch the domestic league title last season, reaching the threshold required for eligibility.

With her endorsement confirmed, top English clubs—Brighton, West Ham, and Aston Villa—are reportedly lining up to sign the 22-year-old forward during the January transfer window. Soccerdonna reports that all three teams are eager to strengthen their attacking options with Omewa, who has been in sensational form this season, scoring 13 goals in 14 league appearances and contributing three goals in the Women’s Champions League.

Omewa’s prolific scoring record also includes four goals in four UEFA Women’s Europa Cup matches and a remarkable 25-goal haul last season, which helped Fortuna Hjorring secure a domestic league and cup double, earning her the league’s top scorer and Player of the Season awards. Her arrival could provide a much-needed boost for WSL sides struggling in attack, highlighting the growing demand for Nigerian talent in England, where players like Chiamaka Nnadozie, Tony Payne, and Rofiat Imuran are already making their mark.