Chelsea sign England midfielder Walsh from Barcelona

Women’s Super League champions Chelsea have confirmed the signing of England midfielder Keira Walsh.

The former Manchester City player returns to the English top-flight after spending two-and-half seasons in Spain, where she secured two Liga F titles and back-to-back Champions League titles along with winning the Copa de la Reina once and the Supercopa de Espana Femenina thrice.

She becomes the WSL leaders’ third signing of the January transfer window after United States defender Naomi Girma, who joined the Blues for a reported world record fee of £900,000, and goalkeeper Femke Liefting.

“It’s unbelievable. I’m very happy to be here and very excited to get started,” Walsh said.

“You look at the history of the trophies Chelsea have won, and I’m an ambitious player and person, so for me, it is a good fit.”

Walsh came through the ranks at Blackburn Rovers before signing for City in 2014, winning the WSL in 2016 along with three FA Cups and four League Cups during her eight-year stay.

Welcome to your new home, Keira Walsh. pic.twitter.com/gO6bt9jpE6

— Chelsea FC Women (@ChelseaFCW) January 31, 2025

The Lionesses star left the club to join Barcelona for a then-world-record fee of £400,000 in 2022.

“Being a Culer has been a dream come true, and I’m grateful for the memories that will last a lifetime,” Walsh posted on Instagram.

“It has been a privilege to be part of such a special group of players, sharing unforgettable moments on and off the pitch.”

Walsh was named the Player of the Match in the final against Germany as England won the European Championship in 2022, while she also helped the nation reach the World Cup final the following year.

Sonia Bompastor’s unbeaten Chelsea are top of the WSL table with 11 wins and a draw, and lead second-placed Manchester United by seven points.