The versatile player who can play defence or midfield joined the Blues from Arsenal in 2016 and made 25 appearances for us, 17 of which were as a starter.

Although Bailey impressed manager Emma Hayes during her early FA Cup matches with her calmness in possession, she sadly missed the Spring Series win and the majority of our highly successful 2017/18 campaign due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

In January, Bailey extended her contract with us and at the same time, she went out on loan to Reading Women to gain valuable playing time to help with her long-term development.

Hayes said of the departing player: ‘After such a horrendous injury, Jade has fought so hard to get back to a high level and it’s crucial she’s now playing games on a regular basis.

‘She’s been a valuable member of the squad throughout her time here, and she’ll be missed because she’s a beautiful soul. She’s a good voice of reason and she kept Drew Spence in check, so I don’t know what I’m going to do with Drew now! Joking aside, I wish Jade the very best and we all look forward to seeing her back at Kingsmeadow next season when Liverpool visit us.’

Chelsea Women would like to wish Jade the best of luck for her future at her new club.