Lionesses star Lucy Bronze set to sign for Chelsea on free transfer after Barcelona exit

Barcelona waved goodbye to Bronze last week after failing to agree a new contract with the Lionesses star. The Guardian reports the defender, who has attracted attention from a host of clubs, will now join Chelsea on a free transfer.

Bronze had a successful two seasons with Barcelona, playing 70 times and winning back-to-back Liga F and Champions League titles. Now, after two years away from the WSL, the 32-year-old looks primed to return; this time with defending champions Chelsea. However, the Blues will be without talismanic manager Emma Hayes - who is now USWNT boss.

Barcelona and Bronze's entourage had held talks about extending her stay at the Catalan outfit, however, a deal could not be struck in the end. Clubs in the WSL and the United States were keen to recruit the former Manchester City ace but now she seems to be heading to west London along with Barca team-mate Julia Bartel.

While the future of the former Lyon star will soon be revealed, Bronze, who has chalked up a whopping 123 caps for England, will next feature for the Lionesses against the Republic of Ireland on July 12 in a Euro 2025 qualifier.