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Published on 2024-02-28 11:30:00
According to reports, Manchester City forward Lauren Hemp is rumored to be leaving the club to join Barcelona at the end of the season. Discussions have allegedly taken place between the two parties as Hemp nears a move to the Catalan side.
Hemp’s contract with Manchester City is set to expire at the end of the season, and despite attempts by the club to renew the deal in January, it seems that the player is considering her options. This has opened the door for Barcelona to swoop in and secure her on a free transfer.
Regarded as one of the top wingers in the world, Hemp has been a standout player for Manchester City in the Women’s Super League this season. Alongside forwards Chloe Kelly and Khadija Shaw, she has played a crucial role in City’s pursuit of dethroning Chelsea and clinching the title. Her contributions of six goals and three assists have been instrumental in City catching up to Chelsea at the top of the table, with both teams currently tied on points and goal difference with just eight matches remaining.
Manchester City has not won the title in eight years, and this season could be Hemp’s first championship with the team. However, with her potential departure looming at the end of the campaign, it poses a significant loss for City as they aim to compete both domestically and in Europe under manager Gary Taylor.
Barcelona, the reigning European champions, will undoubtedly benefit from adding a talent like Hemp to their squad. Losing one of their brightest stars at a crucial juncture could hamper City’s aspirations, especially considering Hemp’s increasing importance for both the club and the English national team.
In the event of Hemp’s departure, Taylor may turn to Australian forward Mary Fowler to fill the void. Signed in the summer of 2022, Fowler has primarily been utilized as a substitute this season and possesses versatility similar to Julian Alvarez in the men’s team, capable of playing across the front line and even in midfield. However, Hemp’s superior skill and impact on the field will be sorely missed if she moves to Spain.
As of now, no official announcement has been made regarding Hemp’s future, and fans will have to wait until the end of the season to see how the situation unfolds. Ideally, City supporters hope that Hemp chooses to remain with the team rather than departing at a critical juncture in their progress.
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