Chelsea are set to welcome England right-back Lucy Bronze to their roster on a free transfer, following her departure from Women’s Champions League winners Barcelona. The 32-year-old’s exit from Barcelona sparked speculation about her next move, with interest from clubs in the NWSL and Paris Saint-Germain. However, reports indicate that Bronze is set to return to the Women’s Super League with Chelsea, where she is expected to sign a two-year contract with the option for an additional year.
During her two seasons with Barcelona, Bronze made 70 appearances and scored five goals, playing a key role in the club’s domestic and European success. She helped Barcelona secure a first-season quadruple followed by a treble last year, including a Women’s Champions League victory over Lyon. Prior to her time in Spain, Bronze spent five seasons at Manchester City and began her career at Sunderland, Everton, and Liverpool.
Bronze’s potential move to Chelsea coincides with the start of a new chapter for the club, as they prepare for their first season under new manager Sonia Bompastor. Bompastor takes over from Emma Hayes, who spent 12 successful years at Chelsea, winning seven Women’s Super League titles and a total of 16 trophies. Chelsea has already signed 20-year-old Julia Bartel to a three-year contract, with the option for an additional year, and is reportedly pursuing French players Sandy Baltimore and Oriane Jean-Francois.