Today, NC Courage and Portland Thorns have announced a trade involving forward Payton Linnehan in exchange for $48,000 in 2025 intra-league transfer funds.
The 2024 NWSL first round draft choice will now head to North Carolina. She has also signed a fully guaranteed contract extension through the 2027 season with a mutual option for 2028.
“I am so excited to be joining the North Carolina Courage. I have heard great things about the players, staff, and culture of the club, and I really like what they’re
doing from top to bottom. I’m excited to be a part of what this team is building and give everything I have to Courage Country,” said Linnehan.
“We’re thrilled to add a dynamic playmaker like Payton to our attacking group. She has all the qualities to be a major contributor in this league and is an excellent fit for our style of play. She’s still young but has already proven herself at this level, and we’re excited to see how she continues to grow here in North Carolina,” said Ceri Bowley, Courage Chief Soccer Officer and Sporting Director.
After being selected 11th overall (first round) in the 2024 NWSL Draft, Linnehan appeared in 32 matches for the Portland Thorns, tallying three goals and one assist.
She will be available for roster selection tonight when NC Courage visit powerhouse, KC Current.
