Lionesses star Ellie Roebuck in 'very advanced' talks to join Barcelona in shock move on free transfer from Man City and link up with Lucy Bronze and Keira Walsh

The Manchester City shot-stopper, whose contract is about to expire, is reportedly close to agreeing a move to the reigning European champions this summer on a free transfer. Although no contract has been signed, it is now extremely likely that the 24-year-old will join the squad where she and her England team-mates, Lucy Bronze and Keira Walsh, won the Women's Champions League last year, as originally reported by Sport.

The Sheffield-born goalkeeper may see her England hopes given a boost as a result of Barcelona's keen interest. The 11-time capped Lioness has had her starts under Sarina Wiegman restricted due to the form of Mary Earps, Wiegman's established number one and has admitted it's been tough being sidelined. Since her clubmate Khiara Keating was chosen as head coach Gareth Taylor's first choice earlier this season, Roebuck has seen very little playing time at Manchester City and is therefore open to a move.

At the age of 15, Roebuck joined Manchester City after starting her career at Sheffield United. She was a part of City's 2019 FA Cup and League Cup victories. She also earned the Women's Super League Golden Glove award in 2019–20 after keeping 10 clean sheets in a row.

Roebuck could potentiall move to Barcelona in the January transfer window but only if the Catalans offload a stopper this winter, according to The Telegraph. It is more likely that Roebuck will move at the end of the season after her contract with Manchester City expires.