Chelsea confirm Lucy Bronze signing on two-year deal after Barcelona exit

Chelsea have confirmed the signing of Lucy Bronze on a two-year contract, completing the England right-back’s switch on a free transfer after the conclusion of her contract at Barcelona.

The move, revealed a fortnight ago by the Guardian, will be among the highest-profile transfers in the global women’s game this summer. The 32-year-old five-time Champions League winner proclaimed her “excitement” at joining the defending Women’s Super League champions, saying: “To know I’m a Chelsea player still feels a little bit surreal.

“I’m really excited to be back in England,” she said. “My family are so excited as well to get to more of my games. I’m excited to be in London, to see what the capital holds and to be at a club that is renowned for winning so many trophies.”

Bronze is a WSL title winner with Liverpool and Manchester City and has 125 England caps. She was the 2020 Fifa Best women’s player of the year and helped the Lionesses secure automatic qualification for next summer’s European Championship on Tuesday in Sweden.

Chelsea’s general manager, Paul Green, said: “Lucy will bring leadership to the group. She is a serial winner and a versatile defender. She has lots of experience and a winning mentality which we feel will fit well into the squad.”

Manchester United have completed the signing of the Norway striker Elisabeth Terland on a two-year contract, with the option of a further year, as first reported by the Guardian.

The 23-year-old was the joint second-highest scorer in the WSL last season with 13 goals. She said: “I’m so honoured to sign for Manchester United and cannot wait to join up with the team. Having experienced their excellent fans from the opposing side, I’m really looking forward to having them in my corner this season.”

United’s manager, Marc Skinner, whose side won the FA Cup last season, said: “Elisabeth is a young player who will bring a fresh dynamic and energy to our team. We are delighted she has chosen to become part of our Manchester United family and look forward to integrating her into our playing squad.”