Chelsea have completed the signing of France international Melvine Malard from Manchester United in a deal worth a reported £750,000.
The 26-year-old forward becomes the latest addition to Sonia Bompastor’s squad as the West London side continue to strengthen ahead of the new season.
Malard arrives after two years at Manchester United, having initially joined on loan from Lyon before making the move permanent.
During her time at United, she established herself as a versatile attacking option, capable of playing across the front line.
The move also reunites Malard with Chelsea head coach Bompastor, who has known the forward since her teenage years.
Chelsea was always part of Malard’s plan
Speaking after completing the transfer, Malard revealed Chelsea had always been part of her long-term plans.
“I’m so happy because I have a plan for my life and my career, and Chelsea were a part of that plan,” said Malard to Chelsea’s official website.
“It is a great club and a big club so I am very excited to get started. I have played against Chelsea a lot of times and have always lost so I know the team have good players.
“And I have known Sonia since I was 14 years old, so it is great to work with her again.”
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Malard targets trophies with Chelsea
Malard also made her ambitions clear as she looks to compete for major honours with the Blues.
“My objective is to become better every single day and to win trophies. I know Chelsea always have that as an objective and I have that ambition too.”
The France international is also eager to make Stamford Bridge her new home after experiencing the atmosphere as an opposition player.
“I am also really looking forward to playing at Stamford Bridge on a regular basis. The atmosphere is incredible and the pitch is close to the fans, so you really feel their energy. I love that.”
Malard adds further quality and experience to Chelsea’s attack as Bompastor prepares for another campaign in which the Blues will challenge on multiple fronts, and hope to take back the WSL title from rivals Manchester City.
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