Barcelona has announced its first signing of the summer: the Catalan defender Laia Aleixandri. At 24 years old, she returns to the team she loves, where she trained at La Masia before moving on. Now she's back, with a long-term contract, having signed until June 30, 2029.
This signing has been very well received in Barça's locker room, with several players who have a good friendship with Aleixandri. One of them is Ona Batlle, as they share a very similar path. Both trained at La Masia, left to play for another team in Spain, went to Manchester, and have ended up returning.
Laia Aleixandri's return is motivated by the departure of Ingrid Engen, leaving an open spot in the defensive line. The midfielder turned center-back comes to fight for a starting position, aiming to raise the competitiveness in Pere Romeu's squad and wanting to fight, as always, for every title.
Laia Aleixandri, Barça member since birth
Barcelona surprised in the statement about Laia Aleixandri's signing, revealing that the Catalan is "a member since her birth".
"A member of Barça since her birth, Laia Aleixandri now returns to what she considers her home to bring talent, experience, and defensive solidity to Pere Romeu's team. She is a versatile player, able to fill different positions in the defensive line, with good ball distribution and a high competitive level.
At just 24 years old, Aleixandri already has an extensive international career. She has been present in all the youth categories of the Spanish national team and is currently a regular in the senior squad. Recently, she was included in the official list to play in the upcoming European Championship in Switzerland this summer, a new international event where she will continue to gain experience at the highest level."
Barça prepares more changes
Laia Aleixandri won't be the only arrival this summer. Madrid-Barcelona has learned that Barça is preparing other strategic signings to keep strengthening the squad. Not just signings, as there may be surprising departures during this summer.
The priority is to secure the future of the core group looking ahead, with many footballers whose contracts end in 2026. Marc Vives, sporting director, needs to act wisely and not make mistakes so Barcelona can keep being competitive both in Spain and in Europe.