The 33-year-old Switzerland captain returns to England after a short spell in Italy, bringing major WSL and European experience to Brighton.
Lia Waelti of Switzerland reacts following her team's defeat and elimination at the end of the UEFA Women's EURO 2025 Quarter-Final match between Spain v Switzerland at Stadion Wankdorf on July 18, 2025
Photo by Eddie Keogh/Getty Images
Lia Walti has returned to the Women’s Super League after one season with Juventus, with the former Arsenal midfielder signing for Brighton for an undisclosed fee.
The 33-year-old left Arsenal in September 2025, ending a hugely influential seven-year spell in north London.
Arsenal sold Walti to Juventus for a reported fee of around €100,000, rising with add-ons, with the Switzerland captain signing a two-year deal through to 2027.
Walti made 177 appearances for Arsenal (according to Brighton, 183 according to the BBC and Wikipedia), winning the WSL, League Cup and Champions League, and was a firm favourite with supporters during a period in which her composure and intelligence made her central to the team’s midfield.
BOREHAMWOOD, ENGLAND - MARCH 08: Lia Walti of Arsenal during the FA Women's Super League match between Arsenal and Liverpool at Meadow Park on March 08, 2023 in Borehamwood, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images
Walti is believed to have wanted a return to England for personal reasons, and Brighton have now secured a player with significant domestic and European pedigree.
Dario Vidosic, Brighton Women’s first-team coach, said of her arrival, “Lia is a huge addition to the team ahead of the new season.
“She brings a similar leadership profile to the group as Fran Kirby – a huge amount of experience at the very top end of the game, with silverware to show for it.
“Lia’s career speaks for itself and I am looking forward to seeing the impact she will have for us.”
Walti’s international teammate, Géraldine Reuteler, 27, is expected to join the Gunners this summer.
Geraldine Reuteler of Switzerland looks on during the FIFA Women's World Cup 2027 Qualifier match between Switzerland and Malta at AIL Arena on June 05, 2026
Photo by Daniela Porcelli/Getty Images
Former Arsenal star signs for Brighton
Lia Walti has returned to the WSL with Brighton, one year after leaving Arsenal for Juventus following seven years in north London.
Coach backs new Arsenal signing to shine as move is confirmed
Daniel McCarron has joined Arsenal from Dungannon Swifts, with former coach Ryan Harpur backing him to make a major impact.
Arsenal appoint new academy director after Mertesacker exit
Arsenal have appointed Pascal De Maesschalck as academy director, succeeding Per Mertesacker after eight years in the role.
Arteta sends emotional message to retiring former Gunner
Mikel Arteta has sent a touching message to Santi Cazorla following the former Gunners’ decision to retire from professional football.
Besiktas close in on personal terms agreement with Arsenal forward
Besiktas are yet to submit an official offer to Arsenal for Leandro Trossard, but the player is considering accepting their proposal for his personal terms.
Related Topics