Chelsea have completed the permanent signing of Italian midfielder Giulia Dragoni from Barcelona, securing one of Europe’s brightest young talents in a move that underlines the Women’s Super League champions’ commitment to investing in emerging stars.
The 19-year-old has signed a long-term contract at Stamford Bridge after spending the past two seasons on loan with Serie A side Roma.
Dragoni arrives in CHELSEAwith a growing reputation as one of Italy’s most promising midfielders. Having joined Barcelona from Inter Milan in 2023, she became the first non-Spanish women’s player to live and develop at La Masia, the Catalan club’s renowned academy.
Although first-team opportunities at Barcelona were limited due to the depth of the European champions’ squad, her development accelerated during successive loan spells at Roma
‘I still can’t believe I have signed for Chelsea!’ said Dragoni.
‘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 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.’
CHELSEA have increasingly focused on recruiting elite young talent alongside established internationals as they continue to build for sustained domestic and European success. Dragoni’s versatility, composure in possession and creativity are expected to add further depth to an already formidable midfield as the club prepares for another campaign challenging on multiple fronts.
Barcelona, meanwhile, part with a player widely considered one of the game’s leading prospects after concluding that a permanent move would provide the clearest pathway for her continued development.
While Dragoni leaves having made only limited senior appearances for the Spanish giants, she departs with valuable experience gained from one of Europe’s most successful football environments.
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