ALEXIA PUTELLAS JOINS LONDON CITY LIONESSES ON FREE TRANSFER

London City Lionesses announced the signing of Alexia Putellas at an event in New York. The two-time Ballon d'Or winner joined on a free transfer after departing Barcelona at the end of the season, concluding a 14-year spell with the club. Putellas helped Barcelona win four Champions League titles during her time there. The 2023 World Cup-winning Spain midfielder had agreed personal terms with London City in early June.

Putellas said the club's ambition and commitment to operating as a women-only independent club aligned with her values. She stated she looked forward to challenging for titles on the pitch whilst supporting youth development off it. London City finished sixth in the WSL during their debut top-flight season. The club has also recruited former England goalkeeper Mary Earps from Paris Saint-Germain, Denmark defender Janni Thomsen from Utah Royals, and Germany forward Nicole Anyomi from Eintracht Frankfurt this summer.

The signing represents a significant addition to the WSL. Putellas ranks among the highest-profile players to join the division, alongside Australia striker Sam Kerr, United States forward Alex Morgan and Carli Lloyd. Kerr spent six years with Chelsea before returning to Gotham FC last month. The club is also understood to be close to signing Spain defender Mapi León and has been linked with Barcelona teammate Salma Paralluelo.