Julia Bartel is set to end a frustrating spell at Chelsea with a permanent move to Juventus, as the Italian giants look to reinforce their midfield ahead of the new season.
Struggles at Chelsea
The 22-year-old Spain youth international arrived at Chelsea from Barcelona in July 2024 with high expectations, signing a three-year contract with an option for a further year. However, Bartel found first-team opportunities extremely limited, making just two appearances in two years across all competitions.
She was deemed surplus to requirements and spent the 2025-26 season out on loan, first at Liverpool for six months and then at Atletico Madrid, where she finally enjoyed regular football.
Impressive Loan Spell in Spain
Bartel’s time at Atletico Madrid proved to be a revitalizing chapter. The midfielder racked up 43 appearances, scoring six goals, and started 15 matches in Liga F. Her energetic displays in the center of the park caught the eye of several European clubs, with Juventus emerging as the frontrunners.
“Julia has developed significantly over the past year and is now ready for a new challenge,” a source close to the player told BBC Sport. “Juventus offers an exciting project where she can compete for trophies and play in the UEFA Women’s Champions League.”
Juventus Move to Replace Walti
Bartel is expected to finalize her move in the coming days, filling the void left by Lia Walti, who recently joined Brighton. Juventus finished third in Serie A last season and were eliminated from the Champions League knockout stage play-offs by Wolfsburg. The club is keen to add depth and quality to mount a stronger challenge domestically and in Europe.
Key Takeaways
- Julia Bartel will leave Chelsea permanently after making just two appearances in two years.
- Her successful loan at Atletico Madrid (43 games, 6 goals) reignited her career and attracted Juventus’s interest.
- Juventus needs a midfield replacement following Lia Walti’s departure to Brighton.
- The transfer is expected to be completed within the next few days, with Bartel signing a multi-year deal.
Quick Facts
Player: Julia Bartel
Age: 22
Position: Central Midfielder
Current Club: Chelsea
Proposed Destination: Juventus
Chelsea Appearances: 2
Loan Club (2025-26): Atletico Madrid
Atletico Goals: 6