Adelaide United have signed American forward Tessa Salvestrin on a one-year contract ahead of the 2026/27 Ninja A-League season.
The 22-year-old arrives in Adelaide following a successful spell in Portugal with SCU Torreense, where she was part of a trophy-winning period for the club.
Salvestrin won the Portuguese Cup in 2024/25 before adding the Portuguese Super Cup and League Cup in 2025/26.
BIG NEWS: 2026/27 Ninja A-League season fixtures released: Full Details
The American striker believes the opportunity to play in Australia and continue developing at Adelaide United is an exciting next step in her career.
“I’ve wanted to live and play in Australia for a while, so I’m really excited to finally be here and to be an Adelaide United player,” Salvestrin said.
“I had a lot of really good conversations with Theo throughout the process and everything I learned about the Club made me even more excited to come here.
“I’m a fast attacker, I love getting into space and using my speed, and I also think I can be a threat in the air. I want to play as much as I can, score goals and help the team.
“Adelaide has a great reputation for giving young players opportunities and I feel like this is a place where I can really show my strengths and continue to grow.
“I can’t wait to get out at Coopers Stadium, play in front of the fans and hopefully celebrate my first goal with them.”
Adelaide United Football Director Mitch van Gellekom said Salvestrin had the attributes the club had been looking for in attack.
TRANSFER CENTRE: Ninja A-League 2026/27 Transfer Centre: Your club’s moves
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE FULL 2026/27 NINJA A-LEAGUE FIXTURE LIST
“Tessa is a player with huge potential and we’re really pleased to bring her to Adelaide,” van Gellekom said.
“She has a number of similar attributes to Erin that we were looking to replace in our front line. She’s quick, athletic, strong in the air and gives us a genuine threat in behind.
“She has already gained some valuable experience overseas at a young age and been part of a successful environment in Portugal.
“We believe Tessa has the qualities to make a real impact in the A-League and we’re confident she can perform on the big stage. We’re looking forward to seeing what she can achieve in Adelaide.”
Salvestrin will join her new teammates as preparations continue for the 2026/27 Ninja A-League season and will wear the No. 11 shirt.
