England defender Lucy Bronze will be one of the most high-profile players in the women’s game to move clubs this summer.
After two seasons with Barcelona, the 32-year-old did not agree a new contract to continue into a third with the European champions. The club announced her departure last week and the player later shared a heartfelt message on Instagram highlighting her pride for being part of their history.
She had a trophy-laden couple of years with the Catalan giants, securing a further two Champions League titles to add to her tally of three from her time in France with Lyon. Bronze also helped Barcelona to two league titles, one Copa de la Reina and two domestic Super Cups.
With another era of Bronze’s illustrious career coming to a close to make way for a new one, 90min takes a look at where the England international could end up next…
Soon after Barcelona confirmed Bronze’s departure, the rumour mill started spinning. The Guardian reported last week that Chelsea have emerged as strong contenders to sign the player, with discussions having already taken place.
Another report, this time from ESPN, claims Chelsea are the club leading the race as a return to the WSL for Bronze, formerly of Manchester City and Liverpool, edges ever closer. Despite plenty of interest from elsewhere, the west London club are said to have presented a large offer that has swayed her to join. However, confirmation of a move is yet to arrive at this stage.
Chelsea themselves begin a new era this summer under Sonia Bompastor, who has taken over from the departing Emma Hayes. The former Lyon boss will be tasked with maintaining the Blues’ status as England’s leading club, as well as break new ground in the Champions League.
As things stand, Chelsea already have France international Eve Perisset operating at right-back, while versatile Ashley Lawrence was also utilised at points last season. When playing a back three under Hayes, Johanna Rytting Kaneryd was even used as the wing-back in that particular formation.
Should an expected return to the WSL not materialise, the likeliest destination is the United States and the NWSL. Strong links with Bronze have emerged once again, with ESPN…
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at 90min EN…