Centre-back Nathalie Bjorn has joined Chelsea from Everton on a three-and-a-half-year deal
Everton have confirmed defender Nathalie Bjorn has joined Chelsea in what could prove to be a major blow to the Blues’ top six ambitions.
The Sweden international arrived on Merseyside from FC Rosengard in July 2021 and has since cemented herself as one of the linchpins of Brian Sorensen’s back line. She made 44 Women’s Super League (WSL) appearances for Everton, scoring two goals, and has become widely regarded as one of the best defenders in the top flight.
The 26-year-old, who helped Sweden to a third-placed finish at last year’s World Cup finals, was linked with a move to Real Madrid in the summer. And Everton have now confirmed she has joined reigning WSL champions Chelsea for an undisclosed fee.
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In a statement on Wednesday, a club spokesperson said: “Everyone at Everton wishes Nathalie all the best for the future.” Bjorn’s Everton future has been in doubt since November, when she admitted to wanting a “new challenge” away from Walton Hall Park.
“I feel like I need a new step and a new challenge to continue developing,” the centre-back told Swedish broadcaster STV when quizzed on her future. “Then, if it is in Spain or England, we will see. They are the two best leagues.”
Bjorn’s departure is a huge blow for Everton, who saw fellow defenders Gabby George and Rikke Sevecke leave the club in the summer. The Blues are currently seventh in the WSL table and were already in the market for a forward following the retirement of experienced winger Nicoline Sorensen in December.
Everton must now also seek to bolster their defensive ranks, though manager Sorensen admitted last month the Blues’ financial position means there is not a lot of money in the coffers to strengthen his squad.
