Chelsea agree £850,000 fee for Manchester United striker Melvine

Chelsea have reached an agreement with Manchester United to sign striker Melvine Malard for a fee in the region of £850,000, sources have confirmed. The 26-year-old France international is expected to undergo a medical in the coming days before completing her move to Stamford Bridge.

Reunion with Bompastor

Malard will be reunited with Chelsea manager Sonia Bompastor, having previously played under her at Lyon. Bompastor, who took over at Chelsea this summer, is familiar with Malard's abilities from their time together in France.

Third signing of the summer

Malard is set to become Chelsea's third signing of the summer transfer window, following the arrivals of versatile Katie McCabe and midfielder Manaka Matsukubo. Her addition is seen as a key boost to Bompastor's attacking options after Sam Kerr departed to join American club Gotham FC.

United's stance

Manchester United had hoped to retain Malard by offering her a new contract, but the player informed the club of her desire to leave. Rather than risk losing her for free next summer when her contract expires, United agreed to a transfer fee with Chelsea.

Statistical impact

Malard was statistically United's most productive attacker last season, recording 19 goal involvements across all competitions. She joined United from Lyon in 2023 and has since established herself as a key figure in the Women's Super League.

Further interviews and analysis from the Women's Super League and beyond are available on the Women's Football Weekly feed.