Nottingham Forest sign Abbie Lafayette on two-year deal

Nottingham Forest have completed the signing of 24‑year‑old Sheffield United defender Abbie Lafayette. The full‑back has agreed a two‑year contract at The City Ground, becoming a Forest player when her Sheffield United deal expires on 1 July 2026.

The announcement was released by Nottingham Forest, known as The Tricky Trees, in an official club press release this afternoon. WSL Full‑Time confirmed the news from the club’s statement.

Lafayette began her senior career with Ipswich Town before moving to Watford. She was signed by Sheffield United in the summer of 2024.

At Sheffield United, Lafayette has been a regular starter, featuring in every match of the Barclays WSL2 campaign this season. Her performances have been described as strong for The Blades.

After finalising her move to Nottingham Forest, Lafayette said, “It’s a great setup here. I’ve heard a lot of positive things from a lot of people so it’s a great feeling to be signing for the Club and I’m really excited.” She added, “I’m an aggressive defender, I like to get stuck in and I’m passionate, which is what fans can expect to see from me. I’m joining an ambitious Club with high expectations for the season ahead, and hopefully something great will come at the end of it.”

The signing marks manager Tom Mallinson’s first acquisition of the summer. Mallinson will look to integrate Lafayette into his plans for the upcoming season.