Watford Signs Prolific Striker Saoirse Noonan on Free Transfer

Watford have moved decisively in the summer market, securing the signing of former Celtic forward Saoirse Noonan on a free transfer.

The 27-year-old arrives with serious numbers behind her. During two ruthless seasons in Glasgow, Noonan scored 57 goals in 74 appearances for Celtic, finishing as the club’s top scorer in back-to-back campaigns. Five hat-tricks in two years underline the kind of penalty-box presence Watford are buying.

Her time at Celtic brought silverware and European experience. Noonan lifted the Scottish Gas Women’s Scottish Cup last season and featured in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, sharpening her game on one of the biggest stages available in the women’s game.

This move is the latest step in a career built on steady, upward progression. Noonan first emerged at Cork City in the SSE Airtricity League Women’s Premier Division before making her name with Shelbourne, where she enjoyed two separate spells. She also knows English football well from a two-year stint with Durham in the Barclays WSL2, experience that should ease her transition back into the domestic game.

On the international stage, Noonan has already broken through with the Republic of Ireland, earning 14 caps and scoring twice. Those appearances speak to a player trusted at the highest level and used to carrying responsibility in big moments.

Noonan becomes Watford’s fourth signing of the summer window, another piece in a squad that is quietly being upgraded. The numbers say they have added a proven finisher. The season will reveal just how far that firepower can take them.