23 March 2020

Chelsea agree to sign German international Leupolz from Bayern Munich

Chelsea have announced the signing of German international Melanie Leupolz for the start of the 2020/21 season.

The 25 year-old, who spent six years at Bayern Munich and has been capped 66 times by Germany, has agreed a three-year deal with the Women's Super League club.

It will be the first time Leupolz has played club football outside of her home country, having broken through at Freiburg in 2010.

Speaking to the club's website, Leupolz said: "It’s a really big move, it’s my first move to another country and I’m really looking forward to it.

"I believe in what Chelsea are doing as a club and I am excited to be a part of that. They want to win titles, and so do I.

"I also like the style of football they play. I have seen a lot of their matches and I think it’s the right club for me."

Chelsea are currently unbeaten in the WSL this season and sit just one point behind Manchester City at the top of the table.

And Blues boss Emma Hayes is excited about the depth Leupolz will bring to the squad at the beginning of the next campaign.

"Melanie has the right qualities that we look for in players at Chelsea. She’s got international experience, been the captain of Bayern Munich and her best years are yet to come," she said.

"It’s a real statement of intent that she chose Chelsea and it shows just how far we’ve come as a football club.

"Melanie is versatile, she’s got wonderful qualities in the midfield areas and she will provide much-needed depth – I’m looking forward to welcoming her to the club."

All elite football in England is currently suspended until April 30 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

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