Transfer news: Chelsea sign PSG’s Jean-François as Spurs snap up Morris

Chelsea have completed the signing of the Paris Saint-Germain defensive midfielder Oriane Jean-François on a three-year contract, with the option of a further year.

The 22-year-old France international sustained an anterior cruciate ligament injury in October 2023 but, before that, had enjoyed a bright start to her career, signing her first professional contract at Paris FC before moving across the French capital to their neighbours in 2022.

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“It is a good moment for my career and the player I want to be,” Jean-François said of her move to the Women’s Super League champions. “I’m very happy to sign here and I’m excited to start my journey.”

Jean-François made her senior France debut in October 2020 and Chelsea’s general manager, Paul Green, praised his club’s new addition: “She has shown a great attitude and we are looking forward to seeing how she takes the next steps in her career while at the club.”

Tottenham have signed the England youth international defender Ella Morris on a free transfer following the expiration of her contract at the Championship side Southampton.

Morris, 21, has signed a deal with the north London club until 2027. She had been with Southampton since joining their youth academy at the age of 14. She helped them to win promotion to the second tier in 2022 and then made 23 appearances for the club last season.

The England midfielder Lucy Staniforth has signed an extended contract at Aston Villa until June 2025. The former Manchester United player has been with Villa since 2023 and has played 32 times for the West Midlands club.

“We are pleased to keep Lucy on board for another year,” Villa’s head of women’s football, Lee Billiard, said. “She possesses such experience, technical ability and knowledge of the game that rubs off on those around her.

“Lucy is a good leader on the field and an experienced head in games. We all missed her presence during the final months of last season but we are looking forward to having her back fit and healthy for the upcoming campaign.”