Chelsea are set to sign Giulia Dragoni from Barcelona as Sonia Bompastor continues to reshape her squad. The 19-year-old Italy international would become the club’s fifth senior arrival of the summer.
Dragoni spent last season on loan at Roma, where she made 29 appearances in all competitions. She scored eight goals and provided four assists during her second campaign with the Italian club.
The Athletic reports that Dragoni is expected to join Chelsea following the end of her loan. No transfer fee or proposed contract length has yet been disclosed.
Why Chelsea want to sign Giulia Dragoni
Dragoni can operate on either wing or in several midfield positions. Her arrival would give Bompastor another technical and versatile option ahead of the new Women’s Super League season.
Chelsea have already strengthened their attacking department by signing Melvine Malard from Manchester United. ReadChelsea covered Malard’s £850,000 move earlier this month.
Manaka Matsukubo, Nelly Las and Katie McCabe have also joined during a busy summer. Chelsea are rebuilding after failing to win the WSL title for the first time in seven seasons.
Dragoni moved to Barcelona from Inter Milan in January 2023. She became the first overseas female player to live and develop at the club’s La Masia academy.
The Italian made 10 senior appearances for Barcelona and scored once. Barcelona confirmed in 2024 that Dragoni had signed a contract until June 2027 before beginning her first loan spell with Roma.
Dragoni made her senior Italy debut at the age of 16 and has since earned 24 caps. She was part of Italy’s squad at the 2023 World Cup and became the first Italian player to win the Women’s Champions League in 2024.
Chelsea have not officially announced the transfer. However, Dragoni is now expected to leave Barcelona and continue her development under Bompastor in London.
