Tuesday 22 December 2015 15:56, UK
England international winger Karen Carney has agreed to join Chelsea on a two-year deal from Birmingham City Ladies.
Carney will officially link up with the club - who won the FA Women's Super League 1 and the Women's FA Cup last season - on New Year's Day.
The 28-year-old midfielder has won 110 caps for England and played a major role in the Lionesses' historic third-place finish at the 2015 Women's World Cup in Canada.
Carney said: "I am thrilled to have signed for Chelsea Ladies. The team won the double last season to establish themselves as the top club in the country and I am excited about the prospect of helping to build on that.
"It is the right point in my career to begin a new challenge and having spoken to [Chelsea boss] Emma Hayes, we share the same ambitions and I firmly believe this is the place to achieve those goals."
Carney has previously worked with Hayes at both Arsenal and American side Chicago Red Stars.
The Chelsea Ladies manager said: "I am absolutely delighted Karen has agreed to join the club. She was a major target and a genuine world-class addition to the squad.
"I know her well having worked with her previously and she has a fantastic character both on and off the pitch. She is a student of the game and brings additional leadership to our squad.
"I see Karen complimenting the talent we already possess in the final third. All our attacking players will benefit hugely from her vision and passing."
Meanwhile, Chelsea midfielder Laura Coombs has joined Liverpool on a season-long loan.
"This is a fantastic move for me and I am really looking forward to the start of the season," said the 24-year-old.
"I had a great year with Chelsea Ladies last season winning the double but this is a brilliant move for me and hopefully I can help Liverpool Ladies to improve on last season."
Liverpool manager Scott Rogers added: "I am really pleased that we have managed to sign Laura on a season long loan deal. She has been a player I have admired for a number of years and I'm sure she will be a crucial player for us next season.
"I know that a number of clubs were interested in signing Laura so I am delighted that she has chosen to join Liverpool Ladies. This is a really exciting signing for the Club and I am sure it will help Laura's international aspirations."
