Adelaide United have made their first move in the transfer market, snapping up former Newcastle Jets defender Claudia Cicco on a two-year deal.
The 21-year-old arrives with valuable Ninja A-League experience after previous spells with Wellington Phoenix and Newcastle Jets, while also representing the Young Matildas.
Cicco made 58 Ninja A-League appearances for Newcastle Jets having signed for the club back in 2023 and now looks set to play a key role in what will be a hew-look defensive line for Adelaide in 2026/27.
TRANSFER CENTRE: Ninja A-League 2026/27 Transfer Centre: Your club’s moves
Claudia Cicco of the Newcastle Jets
Chelsea Dawber of Adelaide United and Claudia Cicco of the Newcastle Jets
“I’m really excited to be joining Adelaide United,” Cicco said, after putting pen-to-paper on her new deal.
“I’ve heard nothing but great things about the club, the culture, the facilities and the training environment, and I feel like this is the right place for me to keep developing and become the best player I can be.
“I knew coming in that Adelaide prioritises young player development, and as a young player myself, I felt this was the best decision for me at this stage of my career.
“I needed a new challenge, and I believe this environment can help me grow, push myself, and continue working towards my goal of playing for the Matildas.”
Adelaide United Football Director Mitch van Gellekom believes Cicco is an ideal fit for the club’s football program.
Claudia Cicco of the Jets
“We’re delighted to bring Claudia to Adelaide United,” he said.
“From our very first conversation, there was a really good connection, and it was clear she shared the values and ambition that are so important to our football program.
“We look for players with the right attitude, a genuine desire to improve, and the hunger to maximise their potential, and Claudia embodies those qualities.
“We believe our environment provides a mixture of ambitious young players with the opportunity to develop, challenge themselves, and take the next step in their careers.
“We’re excited to start working with Claudia, support her journey every day, and hopefully help her develop into a future Matilda.”
Cicco will wear the No.3 shirt for Adelaide United after linking up with the squad ahead of the 2026/27 Ninja A-League season.
