Spanish water polo star Paula Leitón is reportedly on the verge of joining Barceloneta, marking a significant move in the women’s transfer market ahead of the 2025/26 season.
While no official announcement has been made, sources close to the negotiations suggest that the Olympic gold medalist is considering a departure from her long-time club, Sabadell.
Leitón, 25, has been a cornerstone of both Sabadell and the Spanish national team for nearly a decade. She debuted at the 2015 World Championships at just 15 years old and has since amassed an impressive list of accolades, including a silver medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and a gold at Paris 2024 . At the club level, she has secured multiple Spanish league titles and three Champions League victories with Sabadell.
A potential move to Barceloneta would be a notable shift, especially considering the club’s recent efforts to strengthen its women’s team. Historically dominant in men’s water polo, CN Atlètic-Barceloneta has been investing in its women’s squad, aiming to elevate its status in domestic and European competitions. Acquiring a player of Leitón’s caliber would significantly bolster their ambitions.
Leitón’s playing style, characterized by her strength and tactical awareness in the center-forward position, would provide Barceloneta with a formidable presence in the pool. Her experience and leadership could also serve as a catalyst for the team’s younger players.
While the transfer remains unconfirmed, the prospect of Leitón joining Barceloneta has generated considerable buzz within the water polo community. Should the move materialize, it would not only reshape the dynamics of Spanish women’s water polo but also signal Barceloneta’s serious intent to compete at the highest levels.
Other Sabadell players linked with moves away include Sofia Giustini, Bea Ortiz, Rita Keszthelyi, Irene Casado, and Laura Aarts.
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