Barcelona agree blockbuster deal to sign Kerolin from Manchester City in historic €1.5m transfer

Barcelona have reached an agreement with Manchester City to sign Brazil international Kerolin in a transfer worth €1.5 million (£1.28m), making the winger one of the most expensive players in the history of women’s football.

After weeks of negotiations and two rejected offers, the European champions have finally secured a breakthrough, with Kerolin now expected to sign a four-year contract in Catalonia.

Barcelona finally land top target

Barcelona identified Kerolin as one of their priority attacking targets following a summer of significant departures.

Initial reports suggested the Spanish champions had seen two bids turned down by Manchester City, with the Premier League side determined to keep one of their standout performers. However, negotiations continued behind the scenes before both clubs eventually agreed on a €1.5m package, according to reports.

The transfer will rank among the three biggest deals in women’s football history, underlining Barcelona’s determination to remain Europe’s dominant force.

Manchester City cash in on star performer

Kerolin enjoyed an outstanding campaign for Manchester City after arriving from the North Carolina Courage in January 2025.

The Brazilian registered 14 direct goal contributions last season, helping City secure their first Women’s Super League title in a decade. Only Khadija Shaw, Alessia Russo and Vivianne Miedema produced better attacking numbers across the league.

Despite having a contract until 2028, City’s depth in attacking areas made the offer difficult to refuse.

With Shaw, Miedema, Lauren Hemp, Mary Fowler, Beth Mead, Aoba Fujino and Iman Beney already available, the club possesses enough quality to absorb Kerolin’s departure while also having significant funds available for future reinforcements.

Barcelona replace departing stars

Barcelona entered the transfer market needing to strengthen their frontline following the exits of several key attackers.

The departures of Alexia Putellas and Salma Paralluelo created a sizeable gap in the squad despite the continued presence of stars such as Claudia Pina, Caroline Graham Hansen, Ewa Pajor and Kika Nazareth.

Kerolin brings proven quality, versatility and top-level experience, making her an ideal addition as Barcelona aim to defend both their Liga F and UEFA Women’s Champions League crowns.

A statement signing

The agreement represents another major statement from Barcelona in the women’s transfer market.

Rather than relying solely on developing young talent, the Catalan giants have invested heavily in an established international capable of making an immediate impact.

At just 26 years old, Kerolin arrives entering the prime years of her career and will be expected to play a leading role as Barcelona continue their pursuit of domestic and European success.