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

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.”

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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