Two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas has announced her departure from Barcelona after 14 trophy-laden years, with Women's Super League side London City Lionesses emerging as leading contenders for her signature.
The 32-year-old, widely considered one of the greatest female footballers ever, captained Barcelona to their fourth Champions League title on Saturday. She leaves the club with 38 trophies, including 10 league titles, a club-record 232 goals in 507 appearances, and second on the all-time appearance list.
London City, who finished sixth in their debut WSL season, are optimistic about securing a deal for Putellas this summer. Sources say discussions have been ongoing for months, and the club is prepared to offer wages reflecting her status as one of the game's all-time greats.
Putellas won the 2023 World Cup with Spain and was a runner-up at Euro 2025. After missing Euro 2022 due to an ACL injury, she returned to full fitness and has rediscovered the form that earned her back-to-back Ballon d'Or honors in 2021 and 2022.
In an emotional Instagram post, Putellas said: "I said I wanted the final moment to come when I was at my best, giving everything and with 100 percent energy. That's it, now it's time. It has been a perfect story..."
London City are attempting to pull off what would be the biggest transfer in WSL history. The club, owned by billionaire Michele Kang—who also owns Lyon—has ambitions to break into the top three and qualify for the Champions League. Spanish coach Eder Maestre, close friend Jana Fernandez, and potential arrival Mapi Leon are additional draws for Putellas.
While moving from Barcelona to a mid-table team would represent a step down, it underscores the rapid growth and appeal of the WSL as a destination for world-class talent. If London City succeed, it would be a landmark signing for the league.