Chelsea set to sign Italy's Giulia Dragoni from Barcelona

Chelsea are set to sign Italy attacking midfielder Giulia Dragoni from Barcelona, the BBC reported on Tuesday. The 19-year-old has been with the Catalan club since 2023 and has represented Italy at senior international level.

The move would mark one of the most significant transfers involving an Italian women's player in recent years, reflecting the growing international profile of the country's female talent.

Dragoni previously played for Rome-based club before joining Barcelona's youth system. She broke into the first team last season, making appearances in the Primera División and the Women's Champions League. Her performances caught the attention of Chelsea, who have been strengthening their squad under manager Sonia Bompastor.

The transfer highlights the continued investment in women's football by English clubs, with Chelsea among the most active in the transfer market. No financial details have been disclosed, but the BBC report suggests the deal is close to completion.

For Italian women's football, Dragoni's move to the Women's Super League represents both an opportunity and a challenge. The country has seen a steady outflow of talent to stronger European leagues, with players like Barbara Bonansea and Cristiana Girelli remaining at home while younger prospects seek competition abroad. The Italian top flight, Serie A Femminile, has struggled to retain its best players as foreign clubs offer higher wages and more competitive environments.

Dragoni is expected to join Chelsea's first-team squad immediately, pending a medical. The BBC noted that the midfielder is viewed as one of Italy's most promising prospects, having progressed through the youth ranks at international level. Her departure from Barcelona ends a short but notable stint at one of Europe's dominant clubs.