Chelsea have revealed that they have automatically extended Fran Kirby’s contract for another year.
The former PFA Player of the Year’s current deal was set to expire at the end of the season but she will now remain with the Blues until 2024.
Kirby has been sidelined with a knee injury since February after being taken off in the 7-0 win over West Ham, and she was ruled out for the rest of the season and the World Cup.
However, the 29-year-old remains a key player for Emma Hayes’ side, having won an impressive 13 major trophies during her eight-year stay in London.
While Kirby Is Staying, There Are Two Other Stars Leaving Chelsea This Summer
Captain Magda Eriksson and attacking midfielder Pernille Harder have confirmed that they will depart Chelsea when their contracts expire. Both have been tipped to join Lyon.
The announcement that Kirby is staying does provide a certain amount of stability but there will undoubtedly be a significant turnover of players as the Blues reshape their first-team squad.
One player who is expected to arrive in London is Ashley Lawrence. The Canadian international is reportedly close to joining from Paris Saint-Germain on a three-year contract.