Chelsea sign Canada international full-back Ashley Lawrence from PSG on three-year deal

• Six years spent in French capital
• New challenge being taken on
• World Cup finals to come first

WHAT HAPPENED? The 28-year-old full-back will officially link up with the Blues on July 1, with a six-year stint in the French capital being brought to a close. Lawrence is set to figure alongside compatriots Jessie Fleming and Kadeisha Buchanan at the 2023 Women’s World Cup before then joining them as a new domestic team-mate in west London.

WHAT THEY SAID?: Lawrence has told Chelsea’s official website: “I’m really excited and grateful to be joining such a top club in England and in Europe. There are a lot of emotions, excitement and I’m looking forward to meeting everyone, the rest of the players and staff, and to next season.”

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Blues boss Emma Hayes has said of acquiring another proven international: “Ashley has established herself as one of the best full-backs in the women’s game for both club and country. Her ability to get forward, her progressive play into the final third is a standout strength and she can play on both the left and right side. We’re really looking forward to having her with us.”

IN TWO PHOTOS:

WHAT NEXT? Lawrence turned professional in 2017 and won three domestic honours during her time with PSG – while also gracing the Women’s Champions League final in 2016-17. She finished eighth in the vote for the 2021 Ballon d’Or and has represented her country at the World Cup finals and Olympic Games.