England defender Charles joins Man City from Chelsea

Manchester City have signed England international Niamh Charles from Chelsea for £500,000 on a three-year deal. The left-back, 27, spent six years at Chelsea where she made 173 appearances and won five WSL titles, four FA Cups and three League Cups. Charles, who started her career at Liverpool, said she is excited to join City and believes the team is building something she wants to be part of. Charles replaces Spain full-back Leila Ouahabi and will wear the number 21 shirt. City's director of football Therese Sjogran said the club is excited to add Charles' ability and experience, noting that her best years are still ahead. The signing adds squad depth as City, who won their first WSL title in a decade in May, look to challenge in Europe.