Chelsea confirm departure of midfielder to WSL rivals Brighton

Chelsea midfielder Jelena Cankovic has joined WSL rivals Brighton after two successful seasons at the Blues. 

The attacking midfielder is one of several signings the Seagulls have made this summer transfer window as they prepare to enter the upcoming 2024/25 season under new leadership from Dario Vidosic. 

The club have recruited seven new players, and seen four depart since June, including Katie Robinson, Elisabeth Terland, Julia Zigiotti and Veatriki Sarri. Perhaps the most high-profile signing unveiled by Brighton is Chelsea legend Fran Kirby. 

Speaking about her arrival, Vidosic said: "We're delighted to bring a player of Jelena's pedigree and experience to the club. She has already achieved so much in her career but is ready for a new chapter and excited by this challenge.

"Her experience and knowledge will be important in helping our squad grow and I am looking forward to working with her."

Across her time at Chelsea, Cankovic made 38 appearances in all competitions including the Champions League. She first started her professional career in 2013 and won titles at her first three clubs, including Serbia’s Spartak Subotica, Barcelona and Ferencvaros in Hungary. 

The 29-year-old then moved to Swedish club Vaxjo, where she played a vital role in helping the club win promotion to the top-flight in 2017. Cankovic also broke the record for the highest transfer fee between Swedish clubs when she transferred to Malmo-based Rosengard and played Champions League football for them before heading to England.

On the international stage, she made her debut for Serbia in 2013 and has won more than 50 caps for the senior team.

The rest of Brighton’s new signings set to make an appearance next season include Marisa Olislagers, Kiko Seike, Rachel McLauchlan, Aisha Masaka, Bex Rayner and Hannah Poulter.

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