Full Breakdown
Brighton & Hove Albion Target Juventus Midfielder Lia Walti
6/25/2026, 2:05:41 AM
Transfer in Focus: Brighton Pursues Lia Walti
Brighton & Hove Albion’s women’s team is negotiating a transfer for Swiss midfielder Lia Walti from Juventus. Walti, 33, has completed a medical examination, and club officials say discussions are progressing positively. The move would mark Walti’s return to the Women’s Super League (WSL) after a season in Italy.
Background: Walti’s Career Path
Walti spent seven seasons with Arsenal, winning the WSL and the Women’s Champions League. She formed a long-standing midfield partnership with Kim Little, but her role diminished after Spain international Mariona Caldentey joined Arsenal in the summer of 2024 and began operating in a deeper position. In September 2025, Walti signed a two-year contract with Juventus, where she contributed to a Supercoppa Italiana victory and the inaugural Serie A Women’s Cup, although Juventus finished third in the league that season.
Timeline of Recent Moves
- Summer 2024: Mariona Caldentey arrives at Arsenal, altering Walti’s playing time.
- September 2025: Walti transfers from Arsenal to Juventus on a two-year deal.
- June 2026: Walti undergoes a medical with Brighton; negotiations between Brighton and Juventus continue.
Data & Statistics
- Age: 33
- International caps: 120+ (Switzerland captain)
- Major honors: WSL title, Women’s Champions League, Supercoppa Italiana, Serie A Women’s Cup
Official Statements & Responses
Brighton’s management confirmed that the club is “working on a deal” for Walti and described the negotiations as “positive.” Juventus indicated openness to a solution despite having signed Walti only a year earlier. Walti herself expressed a desire to return to England, and Brighton head coach Dario Vidosic noted that Walti would bring “significant experience and leadership” to the squad.
Verbatim Quote
“one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to take in my life.” — Lia Walti, Switzerland captain
Why It Matters: Brighton’s Strategic Intent
Securing Walti would be Brighton’s first summer signing and signals a broader intent to compete with the WSL’s established clubs. The club reached the FA Cup final for the first time last season and has unveiled plans for a purpose-built women’s stadium—the first of its kind in Europe—underscoring a commitment to long-term growth.
What’s Next
The upcoming WSL season will test how Walti integrates into Vidosic’s side. Brighton also anticipates the construction of its new stadium while managing other roster changes: Sweden international Rosa Kafaji returns to Arsenal after a loan, and goalkeeper Sophie Baggaley and midfielder Libby Bance will depart Brighton when their contracts expire this month.
