San Diego Wave FC announced the acquisition of Brazilian forward Ludmila from the Chicago Stars in exchange for $800,000 in intraleague transfer funds, and an additional $200,000 of a conditional transfer fee.
“We’re very excited to come to an agreement to bring Ludmila to San Diego. She’s a player who not only brings a great deal of talent, but also complements the strengths of our existing roster,” said Sporting Director and General Manager Camille Ashton. “Her versatility allows her to operate
in multiple attacking roles, giving our coaches more tactical options in different game situations. Her creativity and movement will enhance our ability to break down defenses, and we’re confident she will be a valuable asset to the Club’s success moving forward.”
The 31-year-old was previously signed through the 2026 season with the Stars, but has signed a new three-year contract with the Wave through the 2028 season.
“I scored my first NWSL goal against San Diego and always was a team I admired. I loved the supporters, the energy of the team, and the vibes of the city when I visited. I’m very happy to be part of this club’s history,” said Ludmila. “From the moment (Ashton) and the organization showed interest in me, my focus was clear. I wanted to play for this team and this city. I didn’t come here just to play. I came to give my best and fight to win trophies. I’m very excited to show my football in front of all the supporters and score many goals in these colors.”
The Brazilian will likely be a huge part of the Wave’s frontline alongside fellow Brazilian forward Dudinha who joined the Wave last summer. Ludmila joined the NWSL following the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in which she won a silver medal with the Brazil Women’s National Team. With Brazil, Ludmila has earned 61 caps and scored six goals across many major competitions.
In the NWSL Ludmila has made 31 appearances with the Stars scoring 13 goals and one assist. In 2025 the star-forward was fourth in the golden boot race with 10 goals despite playing for the last place Chicago Stars. She also set a record for the fastest hat trick in NWSL history scoring the three goals in just 10 minutes and nine seconds.
The addition also comes amid reports from SanDiego.futbol and L’Équipe about the future of the Wave’s star winger Delphine Cascarino. SanDiego.futbol reported on Monday night that sources told them that a move to Europe may happen before the start of the NWSL season. L’Équipe then reported her destination saying the french star would be headed back to Europe to join the London City Lionesses.
Cascarino’s departure would mark one of many of the offseason for the Wave who have seen many players leave during the offseason including three other starters leave, Kailen Sheridan, Savannah McCaskill and Hanna Lundkvist.
