London City Lionesses have signed France forward Kadidiatou Diani from Lyon on a three-year deal for a fee reported to be more than £500,000. The move is significant because it underlines the newly promoted club’s ambition to challenge quickly in the Women’s Super League and potentially qualify for the Champions League. It also adds to wider debate about the influence of wealthy ownership and multi-club models in women’s football.

Diani, 31, leaves Lyon with a year left on her contract after scoring 41 goals in 93 appearances over three seasons, and she has more than 100 caps for France. London City finished sixth in their first WSL season and have already recruited several high-profile players, including Alexia Putellas, Mary Earps and Mapi Leon. Owner Michele Kang also owns Lyon and Washington Spirit, and London City’s aggressive spending has prompted discussion about financial sustainability and the WSL’s salary rules, which limit player wages relative to revenue and permitted investment.