Lionesses star Lauren Hemp 'close' to sealing Barcelona move with Manchester City contract set to expire

Hemp's current deal with City expires at the end of the season and the club was hopeful of tying her down to a new contract, offering her one in January. However, DAZN now reports that the England forward is 'close' to agreeing a switch to Barcelona instead.

Barca are the reigning European champions and adding a player of Hemp's quality - and potential, given she is still just 23 years old - will only strengthen an already incredible squad. For Manchester City, though, it would be a real blow to lose such a key player just when they are starting to seemingly turn a corner and re-establish themselves as consistent contenders in England.

Hemp has yet to win the Women's Super League title but could well do so this season, with her playing a key role as Manchester City battle hard with league leaders Chelsea in a bid to end an eight-year wait to lift the trophy again.

That title race could well come to a head this weekend when Chelsea and City meet in London. If Hemp and the visiting team are victorious by at least a two-goal margin, they would overtake the Blues at the top of the table with eight games remaining.