Chelsea set to sign Italy's Dragoni from Barcelona

What the report says

BBC Sport reports that Chelsea are poised to bring in Italy attacking midfielder Giulia Dragoni from Barcelona, in what would be the club’s fourth signing of the summer. The 19-year-old has been on Chelsea’s radar for several years, according to the report, and is expected to add depth to a squad aiming to respond after Manchester City’s Women’s Super League success last season.

Dragoni joined Barcelona in 2023 after coming through Inter Milan’s youth system, but she has spent the past two seasons on loan at Roma. During that spell she gained experience in the Women’s Champions League, a factor that adds to her profile despite her age. BBC Sport says Chelsea have been drawn to her technical quality, versatility and ability to operate in several attacking roles as well as midfield.

At international level, Dragoni has already made 24 appearances for Italy after making her senior debut at 16 in 2023. That early breakthrough and continued selection underline why she is viewed as one of the more notable young Italian players in the women’s game.

The reported move fits into Chelsea’s wider summer rebuilding as the club looks to strengthen for domestic and European competition. BBC Sport did not state the fee, contract length or exact timing of the expected completion, so those details remain unconfirmed from the supplied report.