Chelsea sign Julia Bartel from Barcelona as transfer plans take shape in new era

Spanish midfielder is the first signing made since Sonia Bompastor replaced Emma Hayes as Blues boss
Dom Smith3 July 2024

Chelsea have signed 20-year-old midfielder Julia Bartel from Barcelona on a free transfer.

The Spaniard has signed a contract with the Blues until the summer of 2027, with an additional one-year extension option.

A Barca academy graduate, Bartel made her senior debut at the age of 17 back in 2021 and is a current Spain Under-23 international.

The attacking midfielder said: “I am very happy to be here at Chelsea. It’s one of the biggest clubs in Europe and I am very excited to be part of this club.”

Done deal: Chelsea have signed Spanish forward Julia Bartel from Barcelona
Getty Images for DFB

Chelsea’s general manager, Paul Green, added: “Julia is a top young player, who is technically excellent and has good pedigree coming through at Barcelona and the Spanish international youth teams.

“She has good leadership skills for someone at a young age and we look forward to seeing her develop in the upcoming years.”

Bartel was named in the team of the tournament as she helped Spain win the Under-20 World Cup in 2022. She also won the Under-19 European Championship last summer, featuring in every game during both tournament runs.

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