Lucy Bronze sends farewell message to Barcelona fans after exit confirmed with Lionesses star having held talks over WSL return

Bronze's contract expires this week and though there was hope from both parties that a new deal could be agreed, things have not worked out. It appeared that the club's financial restraints could be the stumbling block, with the England international one of their top-earners, but Sport has instead reported that she wanted a more significant role than was being promised in negotiations.

There have been plenty of rumours regarding interest in Bronze in recent months, as her contract has been running down. Clubs in England and the United States are believed to have been keeping tabs on her situation, with The Guardian reporting that Chelsea have even held discussions about a possible Women's Super League return for the 32-year-old.

In a message on Instagram, Bronze said: "Hello culers. I'm sorry for not doing this in person but I wanted to leave a message for you. From the first day at Barca until the last, I have felt at home. I was happy to wear the Barca shirt and I loved every moment, the life, the city, the culture, the team, the club, the people. For that, thank you very much. It has only been two years, two seasons in which we won everything together and for that I am very happy, very happy to be a small part of history."

Fellow Lionesses Georgia Stanway and Mary Earps, set for her own exit from Manchester United this week, were among those to show love for the defender in the comments, with the latter simply writing "winner".

Developments on Bronze's next move will surely coming in the next days and weeks, with Chelsea certain not to be alone in pursuing a deal for the England star.