Barcelona officially complete signing of Martina Fernandez

Barcelona have officially announced the signing of 21-year-old Catalan defender Martina Fernandez. The player returns to her homeland after an 18-month stint in the English Women's Super League with Everton.

To secure the defender's return, the Catalan club activated a buy-back clause retained during her initial move to England. The deal is valued at approximately 150,000 euros, with Fernandez committing to a contract that runs through the summer of 2029.

Fernandez is well-acquainted with the club, having made her first-team debut during the 2021/2022 season at just 17 years old under former coach Jonatan Giraldez. Following a meniscus injury, she moved to England where she established herself as a regular starter, making 25 league appearances for the Toffees.

Her return is timely, as Barcelona look to bolster their defensive line following the departure of Mapi Leon and the ongoing recovery of Laia Aleixandri. Fernandez arrives as the club's third summer signing, joining Renee van Asten and Tyler McCammey as part of Pere Romeu's squad overhaul.

The official signing ceremony is scheduled for the coming days at the office of club president Joan Laporta, with head of women's football Xavier Puig expected to be in attendance.