Manchester United are close to agreeing a club-record sale of France forward Melvine Malard to Chelsea, with a fee expected to be around £850,000. The deal marks a significant moment in the Women's Super League transfer market, as United look to reinvest the funds into their squad before the 3 September deadline.
Malard, 26, has one year remaining on her contract and expressed a desire for a new challenge. United opted to sell rather than lose her on a free transfer next summer. Chelsea have tracked the former Lyon player for an extended period, and she is set to reunite with manager Sonia Bompastor, who coached her at Lyon.
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Key Details of the Transfer
The transfer fee could reach approximately £850,000, though some sources suggest it may be closer to £750,000. Either way, it would be a club-record sale for Manchester United. The move is expected to go through after final-stage discussions.
Malard scored four Champions League goals last season, helping United reach a maiden European quarterfinal. She also netted six times in the WSL across 18 starts and was part of the France squad at Euro 2025.
How This Affects Both Clubs
For Chelsea, Malard strengthens attacking options already boosted by a new contract for Aggie Beever-Jones. For United, the sale provides funds to reinforce Marc Skinner's side, who are expected to be active in the transfer market.
| Club | Key Impact |
|---|---|
| Manchester United | Record sale, reinvestment into squad |
| Chelsea | Attacking depth, Bompastor reunion |
Why Malard Chose Chelsea
Malard previously played under Bompastor at Lyon and has a friendship spanning over a decade. Bompastor encouraged Malard to move from Réunion to Lyon as a youngster, and the pair are eager to work together again.
- Record fee for Manchester United women's team
- Reunion with Sonia Bompastor at Chelsea
- Reinvestment likely for United's squad
- Deadline for transfers: 3 September
Other WSL Transfer News
Arsenal have signed 19-year-old Germany youth international Lisa Baum from RB Leipzig. Born in Tanzania, Baum moved to Germany at age four and has been a regular in age-group sides. She said, "This league is so competitive and Arsenal is a big club, so I'm excited to challenge."
FAQ
What is the transfer fee for Melvine Malard?
The fee is expected to be around £850,000, though some sources suggest it could be closer to £750,000. It will be a club-record sale for Manchester United.
Why is Malard leaving Manchester United?
Malard had one year left on her contract and wanted a new challenge. United chose to sell now rather than lose her on a free transfer next summer.
How will Manchester United use the transfer fee?
United are expected to reinvest the fee into Marc Skinner's squad before the transfer window closes on 3 September.
This transfer marks a pivotal moment in the WSL, with Chelsea strengthening their title bid and United securing a record fee to build for the future.