(Credit: Imago)

West Ham announce new Stapleton contract as delight emerges at London Stadium

Andrew has covered West Ham United on West Ham Zone since joining Breaking Media in 2025. He graduated with a degree in Sports Journalism from the University of Sunderland in 2024 and gained his NCTJ Diploma in Journalism in the same year. He has previously covered Blyth Spartans AFC and South Shields FC for the Non-League Paper and worked as head of media at Seaham Red Star FC and Willington Quay Saints FC.

Published on:

28 Jul 2025, 8:40 am

West Ham United Women are looking to build for the future.

The Hammers finished ninth in the Women's Super League last season, winning just six games all year, although they were well clear of the sole relegation spot.

Rehanne Skinner's side have responded by stacking up on young talent, signing Sarah Brasero from Estoril Praia.

The Hammers are in the midst of a golden generation of sorts, and have now extended the contract for one of their top young talents.

West Ham are building for the future after a 9th-placed finish last time out (Credit: Imago)

Jessie Stapleton signs new two-year extension

Jessie Stapleton has signed a new contract at the London Stadium after returning from her loan spell at Sunderland.

The 20-year-old will leave on loan again next season to Women's Championship side Nottingham Forest, after they were promoted from the Northern Premier Division.

The Irish defender featured 23 times for the Black Cats last term, scoring twice, and was named Young Women's International Player of the Year in June.

Speaking to West Ham's website, Stapleton said: "It’s an honour to sign a new contract at West Ham United. I’ve been here for two years now, and the club has been superb for me in that time, both on and off the pitch."

Skinner is delighted that the youngster has renewed her deal at the Hammers, and is looking forward to see her develop over the next two years.

She said: "I’m delighted that Jessie has extended her contract with us. Jessie is a ball-playing defender with a fantastic attitude.

"Having already gained some invaluable experience on loan at Reading and Sunderland, as well as playing on the international stage for the Republic of Ireland, we have no doubt about her potential."

We are delighted to announce that defender Jessie Stapleton has penned a contract extension with the Club ⚒️

The 20-year-old will now spend the upcoming season on loan at WSL2 side Nottingham Forest 🤝
— West Ham United Women (@westhamwomen) July 28, 2025

West Ham are going in the right direction

The East Londoners' business this summer has been smart and calculated, knowing that the gap between the mid-table sides is minuscule.

Brasero's signing and Stapleton's renewal show that West Ham are willing to wait for their young talent to develop and will hope to reap the benefits in the coming years.

Another season in the Championship will be excellent for the Irish defender's development and will help all parties in the long term.

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