The Matildas reached a first-ever Women’s World Cup semi-final at this summer’s tournament and midfielder Kyra Cooney-Cross was the co-hosts’ breakout star
Kyra Cooney-Cross of Australia looks on during the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 Semi Final match against England
Chelsea are in talks to sign with Australia star Kyra Cooney-Cross following her standout performances at the summer’s Women’s World Cup.
The 21-year-old midfielder seized headlines as her displays in the centre of the park helped fire the co-hosts to a first-ever semi-final, largely without the inimitable firepower of Sam Kerr.
Indeed, where the Matildas’ World Cup campaign looked destined for trouble, Cooney-Cross cut emerged as a breakout star in the tournament. And just 18 months after departing the A-League in Australia for Swedish side Hammarby IF, Cooney-Cross is fielding interest from around the world, with the reigning WSL champions leading the charge.
Cooney-Cross’ contract with Hammarby is set to expire in January, leaving her available to join the club of her choice, with reports suggesting that the Australian international is keen on departing Sweden.
Cooney-Cross had been linked to a move to WSL side Everton, where compatriot Clare Wheeler plies her trade. Manchester United, Juventus and Lyon have also expressed interest.
Yet reports suggest that the Blues have kept a keen eye on Cooney-Cross well before the summer, and the midfielder’s standout performances have only furthered their interest, particularly as Chelsea manager Emma Hayes, working as a pundit for ITV over the summer, had a front row seat to the midfielder’s on-pitch exploits.
Sam Kerr and Kyra Cooney-Cross of the Matildas (
Image:
Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)
And her familiarity with striker Kerr only strengthens the tantalising dynamic the two could relish at club level together.
Having claimed the FA Cup and WSL titles last season, the Blues are looking to extend their domestic dominance to Europe, an arena that has proven stubbornly resilient to Hayes’ threats. This summer has seen Chelsea bolster their squad as they prepare to compete on all fronts, and midfield continues to be a key area for the Blues with ageing stars.
Chelsea return to WSL action on the 1 October when they host Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge.
