Women’s Super League champions Chelsea have announced the signing of Niamh Charles ahead of the 2020/21 season. 

The 21 year-old will be with the Blues until 2023, after joining from Liverpool, where she made 59 appearances. 

Charles made her first team debut in the WSL four years ago after graduating from Liverpool’s development squad.

She has represented England at youth level and has played in the 2016 FIFA under-17s World Cup and the under-20s version of the tournament two years later. 

On her signing, she said: "I’m absolutely delighted to be joining Chelsea FC Women. This is a really proud day for not only myself, but also my family.

"Emma Hayes is one of the most highly-regarded managers in our game. 

“She was a huge part of my decision to come to the club. I know she will help me fulfil my potential and I will be working hard to make sure I give myself every opportunity to learn, develop and improve as a player. I can’t wait to get started.”

Hayes added: "Niamh is a player we have watched since her debut season. She is a tenacious and willing competitor that gives everything in her performance.

“Her abilities out wide will be utilised on both flanks and we know her best years are to come. She knows what it takes to succeed here and she has a great head on her shoulders.”

Chelsea were crowned WSL champions for the 2019/20 season after clubs agreed an average points-per-game system to establish the final placings.