Crystal Palace have confirmed the signing of England Under-23 striker Lexi Lloyd-Smith on a three-year deal, as the Eagles continue to strengthen for their return to the Women's Super League.
The 23-year-old joins after a sensational season with Bristol City, where she netted 23 goals in 48 appearances to finish as the WSL2 top scorer and help her side gain promotion.
'A real talent'
Palace manager Jo Potter expressed delight at securing Lloyd-Smith's signature, praising her proven goal-scoring ability in the second tier.
"Lexi is a real talent who showed us all what she could do in the WSL2 last season," Potter said.
The striker herself highlighted the emotional significance of joining her hometown club, returning to south London from where she grew up in Peckham.
"I know I'm going to be playing for something more now – my roots, where I'm from. I'll always be proud to be from Peckham. It means everything."
Building for the top flight
Lloyd-Smith's arrival is the latest in a busy summer for Palace, who secured their WSL return by finishing runners-up in the Championship. Earlier this week, they also announced the signing of Lionesses striker Bethany England as they prepare for life in the top division.
Additional reporting from BBC Sport.
