Chelsea complete Malard signing from Manchester United for club-record fee

Chelsea have completed the signing of France forward Melvine Malard from Manchester United on a four-year contract, the club announced on Wednesday.

The 26-year-old moves for a fee of approximately £850,000, a club-record sale for Manchester United's women's team. Malard had one year remaining on her contract at United, who were keen to keep her but ultimately accepted the offer after it became clear she wanted to leave.

Why United agreed to sell

Manchester United and Chelsea agreed to the transfer after Malard expressed her desire to move. Rather than risk losing a highly valued player on a free transfer next summer, United opted to cash in on the forward now. The fee marks a significant return on the player, who joined United three seasons ago.

• Malard joins Chelsea on a four-year contract.
• The £850,000 fee is a Manchester United women's club record.
• She follows Katie McCabe and Mayra Matsukubo in moving to Chelsea this window.
• Malard leaves United with one year left on her previous deal.

Malard now links up with a Chelsea side that has consistently challenged for the Women's Super League title. Her arrival adds further depth to an attacking line that already includes several international options, and she will be expected to compete for a starting spot as the club pursues honours domestically and in Europe.