Chelsea hand first professional contract to France youth international Rachael Adedini

French-born Nigerian forward Rachael Adedini has signed her first professional contract with Chelsea, the English women’s football leaders announced on Tuesday.

The 17-year-old has represented France at Under-17 level 24 times and has also made two appearances for the Under-19 side. Chelsea described her as a dynamic and versatile forward who can operate as a central striker or from either wide position.

Adedini was born in Le Havre and has played at three successive Women’s Under-17 European Championships since the 2023/24 campaign. She has scored nine goals in the competition, a total that places her level with Germany’s Shekiera Martinez as the tournament’s all-time leading scorer.

France reached the final in 2026 but were beaten 1-0 by Germany. Adedini was the tournament’s Golden Boot winner after scoring in France’s 5-0 victory over Poland and twice in their 4-1 group-stage win against Finland.

“Chelsea can confirm that promising young forward Rachael Adedini has signed her first contract as a professional with the club,” the club said in a statement.

“Everyone at Chelsea extends a warm welcome to Rachael, and we look forward to watching her progress.”

Adedini said her family’s long-standing support for Chelsea made the move particularly significant.

“I’m thankful to God, and the reason behind this is because my brother’s a big fan, and we’ve always loved Chelsea, so playing here today is a massive pride for me and my family,” she told the Chelsea website.

The forward began her development with French club CM Ingre before moving to Orleans in 2021.

She transferred to Manchester United’s academy in 2022, then joined Manchester City’s youth system two years later. During the 2025–26 season, she was signed to Manchester City’s U21 side.

Chelsea’s announcement marks the latest step in a career that has included youth football in France and England, as well as major international experience with France’s age-group teams.