theglobalsun – London City Lionesses have pulled off one of the biggest transfers in women’s football by signing Spain international Alexia Putellas on a free transfer following the expiration of her contract with Barcelona.
The landmark move represents a major statement from the independent Women’s Super League club. Which continues to establish itself as an ambitious force after finishing sixth in its debut season in England’s top flight.
Despite widespread interest from several of Europe’s biggest clubs. London City Lionesses successfully secured the signature of the two-time Ballon d’Or winner. Highlighting the club’s growing reputation and ambition in the transfer market.
Putellas joins as a free agent after deciding not to renew her contract with Barcelona. Although reports suggest the Lionesses presented the midfielder with a lucrative financial package to complete the deal.
Barcelona Icon Leaves After Historic Trophy-Laden Career
Putellas departs Barcelona as one of the greatest players in the club’s history. During her remarkable spell with the Spanish giants, she won 38 major trophies. Including 10 Liga F titles and four UEFA Women’s Champions League crowns.
Her final European triumph came last season as Barcelona lifted their fourth Champions League title. The Spanish midfielder also leaves as Barcelona’s all-time leading goalscorer with 232 goals in 507 appearances across all competitions.
She finishes second on the club’s all-time appearance list. Just nine matches behind club legend Melanie Serrano, who made 516 appearances.
Putellas established herself as the heartbeat of Barcelona’s golden era. Combining exceptional creativity, leadership and goalscoring ability to help the club dominate both domestic and European football.
World Cup Winner Ready for New Challenge in England
On the international stage, Putellas has enjoyed similar success with Spain. She helped La Roja lift the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023 and was part of the squad that reached the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 final, where Spain finished runners-up to England.
Her career briefly stalled after suffering a serious anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury just before Euro 2022, forcing her to miss the tournament and spend much of the following season recovering.
However, since returning to full fitness, Putellas has rediscovered the outstanding form that made her one of the world’s finest footballers.
Her performances earned consecutive Ballon d’Or Féminin awards in 2021 and 2022, cementing her status among the greatest midfielders of her generation.
Reports indicate London City Lionesses have been working on the transfer since January and remained confident throughout negotiations that they could persuade the Barcelona legend to join the club.
The arrival of Alexia Putellas is the biggest signing in London City Lionesses’ history and sends a powerful message about the club’s long-term ambitions.
Adding one of the most decorated and accomplished players in women’s football significantly strengthens the Lionesses’ squad as they look to challenge the established powers of the Women’s Super League in the seasons ahead.
