Chelsea have reached an agreement to sign Manchester United striker Melvine Malard for around £850,000. The 26-year-old France international will have a medical before completing her move to Stamford Bridge, where she will reunite with manager Sonia Bompastor.
Malard is expected to be Chelsea’s third signing of the summer, following the arrivals of Katie McCabe and midfielder Manaka Matsukubo. Her addition strengthens Bompastor’s attack after Sam Kerr’s departure to NWSL side Gotham FC.
United wanted to keep Malard and offered her a new contract, but she informed the club she wished to leave. They agreed a fee with Chelsea rather than risk losing her for free next summer.
With 19 goal contributions in all competitions last season, Malard was United’s most productive forward. She previously worked with Bompastor at Lyon, the club United signed her from in 2023.