Image credit: Getty Images. By Emma Sanders. BBC Sport reporter covering women’s football news. Le 11 juin 2026. Manchester City have reached an agreement to sign England left-back Niamh Charles from Chelsea. The defender is set to leave the club after six years and 173 appearances. During her time at Chelsea, she won five Women’s Super League titles, four FA Cups and three League Cups, and was part of the squad that reached the 2021 Women’s Champions League final under Emma Hayes.
Charles’ exit comes shortly after the arrival of Republic of Ireland international Katie McCabe from Arsenal last month. Having secured their first WSL title in a decade in May, City are looking to strengthen their squad depth ahead of a return to European competition next season. They are also expected to complete the signing of England forward Beth Mead, who left Arsenal last month.
Charles would bring valuable WSL and Champions League experience to the City squad, while the England international is seeking regular playing time to secure her place in Sarina Wiegman’s team for next year’s World Cup.
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