WSL Chelsea Italy: Dragoni's four‑year pledge reshapes midfield

Chelsea have secured Italy international Giulia Dragoni on a four‑year contract, bringing the 19‑year‑old midfielder from Barcelona to the Blues in the WSL ahead of the 2026/27 season. The deal, announced as the club’s latest summer signing, underscores Chelsea’s intent to reinforce their squad and add technical brilliance to their midfield.

Chelsea pursued Dragoni to add technical brilliance and intelligent positional play to their midfield. She is regarded as one of the most highly rated young midfielders in world football, praised for her technical excellence. The four‑Year contract signals a long‑term commitment.

The signing aligns with the club’s ambition to strengthen the squad for a return to winning ways and is announced as the latest summer signing. It underscores Chelsea’s intent to reinforce the Blues ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

Dragoni began her football journey in the academy of Pro Sesto before moving to Inter Milan in 2020, where she debuted shortly after turning 16. Her early development laid the foundation for her rapid rise.

Barcelona’s scouts signed her in January 2023 and she later contributed to their historic quadruple in the 2023/24 season. The experience added a winning pedigree to her résumé.

A loan spell at Roma saw her record seven goals and four assists in 22 league matches, earning Serie A Women Midfielder of the Year. The accolade highlighted her impact in a top league.

She has amassed 25 caps for Italy since her senior debut in 2023, and Chelsea will hope her technical brilliance and game intelligence help the Blues return to winning ways in the 2026/27 WSL season, which begins on 5 September. Speaking about the move, Dragoni said, “I still can’t believe I have signed for Chelsea! When I was a child, not even in my biggest dreams did I think I would sign for Chelsea. It’s unbelievable. I’m really excited.”

The transfer gives Dragoni a platform in London to further develop her career while providing Chelsea with a promising talent for the future. She joins a midfield that the club aims to revitalize.