Chelsea sign Maelys Mpome from Montpellier as defender says she's 'living the dream' by joining WSL champions

The Blues confirmed the signing of the 21-year-old on a deal until 2028 on Thursday, with the France youth international bolstering Sonia Bompastor's options at the back. Upon her move, the former VGA Saint-Maur player says she cannot wait to get started.

The France Under-23 international told Chelsea's website: "I am really excited to be here. It’s just like living a dream to join such a big club. Now I just can’t wait to meet the team and start training."

Blues general manager Paul Green added: "Maelys has good experience for her age and has developed well at Montpellier in the last few years. She is a tall and athletic defender whose profile we believe will suit the WSL. We look forward to seeing her further develop and improve in the upcoming years."

Chelsea are entering a new era in their history following Emma Hayes' exit from the club earlier this year. She brought them unprecedented success and new boss Bompastor has a hard act to follow. Whether the likes of Mpome can play a big part in this next chapter remains to be seen.

Chelsea have their final pre-season friendly game on Saturday at home to Feyenoord before beginning their WSL title defence against Aston Villa on September 20 in Bompastor's first competitive game in charge.