Chelsea have secured the signing of Japan international Manaka Matsukubo on a five-year deal.
The 21-year-old midfielder joins from National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) side North Carolina Courage in the United States.
Matsukubo recorded 19 goals and 10 assists in 58 appearances for North Carolina and was named NWSL Midfielder of the Year in 2025.
She said she is thrilled to join Chelsea, a club with a rich history.
Highlighting the team’s track record of success at the highest level, she added the opportunity was impossible to turn down.
Matsukubo aims to help sustain the club’s trophy-winning tradition for years to come.