Inter Milan Signs Versatile Toni Payne in Shaping Roster
The Nerazzurre confirmed the signing of the Nigerian international on Saturday, announcing that she has penned a two-year contract that will keep her at the club until June 2028. Born in Birmingham, Alabama, to Nigerian parents, Payne has made a name for herself in European football, playing for Ajax and Sevilla before joining Everton two years ago.
Speaking after completing the transfer, Payne expressed her excitement at joining one of Italy's biggest clubs, describing the move as a major milestone in her career. 'I'm really excited to be signing for Inter. There's so much history at the club, and I'm really happy to be a part of it,' she told the club's official website.
Payne believes her style of play is well-suited to Italian football, bringing her speed, dribbling skills, and crossing ability to the team. 'The league is very competitive. I think I have a couple of qualities that I can demonstrate here, so I'm excited to do that in the upcoming seasons,' she said.
She joins compatriots Rinsola Babajide and Shukurat Oladipo who are already making their mark in Italy's top-flight women's league. Payne, an integral member of the Super Falcons setup since her commitment to Nigeria in 2021, has represented her country at the biggest stages of the game, including the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, the 2024 Olympic Games, and the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Her transfer further solidifies Nigeria's growing representation in Italy's top-flight women's league, where she is eager to compete for major trophies and contribute to her new club's success.
'I'm in a different phase of my career. I'm really excited to be joining such a competitive league and a competitive team that is striving for great things.'
Toni Payne's move to Inter Milan is more than just another transfer, it's an opportunity to challenge herself, compete for major honours, and continue her remarkable journey at the highest level of European football while remaining a key figure for the Super Falcons.
Key Facts
- Toni Payne has signed a two-year contract with Inter Milan Women.
- The Nigerian midfielder was previously playing for Everton in the Women's Super League.
- Payne represented Nigeria at the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup and the 2024 Olympic Games.
- She joins compatriots Rinsola Babajide and Shukurat Oladipo in Italy's top-flight women's league.
- Payne has committed to Nigeria since 2021 and has been an integral member of the Super Falcons setup.
With this transfer, Payne looks to bring her skills and experience to Inter Milan, contributing to the team's success and achieving her goals in European football. Her move serves as a testament to her dedication and hard work, and fans eagerly await her first match in the Italian Serie A Femminile.