Chelsea Women Sign'One of the Best Young Midfielders' in Giulia Dragoni
Giulia Dragoni pictured before a Womens World Cup 2027 Qualifier Photo by Simone ArvedaGetty Images
Chelsea Women have completed a permanent transfer of Italy international Giulia Dragoni from Barcelona.
The Italy international, regarded as one of the best young midfielders in world football, has agreed a four-year contract with the Blues.
She joined Inter Milan in 2020 and made her senior debut just after turning 16, and her performances earned her a move to Barcelona.
Dragoni made her breakthrough into Barca’s first team in the 2023/24 season before heading to Roma on loan, where she played a key role in their 2025 title win. She went back to the Italian capital on another temporary spell last season and once again shone, helping Roma defend their crown with seven goals and four assists.
Her senior Italy debut came in 2023, and she went on to start three games at the World Cup, despite being the second-youngest player in the tournament at just 16. Now at 19, she already boasts 25 caps to her name.
Dragoni told chelseafc.com: ‘When I was a child, not even in my biggest dreams did I think I would sign for Chelsea. It’s unbelievable. I’m really excited.
‘I spoke with Sonia [Bompastor] and she introduced me to the project here and showed me the possibilities. We all know Chelsea is one of the best clubs in the world so it wasn’t hard to convince me to come here.’
Eva Hendle signs first pro contract
Meanwhile, Chelsea Academy winger Eva Hendle has signed her first professional contract with the club, keeping her on board until the summer of 2028 with an option for an extra year, and will head to Rangers on loan for the 2026/27 season.
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