Chelsea, the reigning WSL champions, have officially announced the acquisition of defender Lucy Bronze from Barcelona on a two-year deal.

Chelsea Football Club have made a significant signing by bringing in Lucy Bronze, the England international, on a free transfer from Barcelona. The defender has put pen to paper on a two-year contract with the Women’s Super League champions, with the option of extending for another year.

Chelsea, who faced tough competition for the title last season, are in the process of rebuilding their squad. They are also adjusting to the departure of their former manager Emma Hayes, who has taken up a new role in the United States. Sonia Bompastor, the former Lyon boss, has been appointed as the new manager.

Bronze, aged 32, had been in discussions to stay at Barcelona but declined the offers as she was not guaranteed a starting position ahead of Spanish international full-back Ona Batile. In an interview with the club’s website, Bronze expressed her excitement about joining Chelsea, stating that it feels surreal to be a part of a club she has known for a long time. She also mentioned her eagerness to be back in England, with her family looking forward to attending more of her games. Bronze added that she is thrilled to be in London and to be joining a club with a rich history of winning trophies.

The experienced defender, who previously played for Manchester City, will reunite with Chelsea’s assistant manager Camille Abiliy, who was a coach during Bronze’s time at Lyon. Bronze achieved great success in France, winning three consecutive Champions League titles and adding two more at Barcelona, including a treble in the 2023/24 season. During her time at Manchester City, she won the Women’s Super League once and the FA Cup twice.

Bronze is the latest addition to Bompastor’s squad, following the signings of 20-year-old midfielder Julia Bartel from Barcelona, as well as Sandy Baltimore and Oriane Jean-Francois from PSG. Bronze has previously won the Women’s Super League with Liverpool and was a key member of the England team that won the Euro 2022 tournament. She also reached the final of the World Cup last year.

Chelsea fans will undoubtedly be excited to see Bronze in action, as she brings a wealth of experience and success to the team. With the club’s ambition to continue their winning ways, Bronze’s arrival is a significant boost to their defensive line.