Arsenal Women confirm WSL loan move for highly rated midfield talent
Arsenal Women have confirmed that young midfielder Laila Harbert has joined Everton on loan for the rest of the season.
The move will see the teenager continue her development in the Women’s Super League with regular first-team football.
Harbert, who is 19 years old, remains highly rated by the Arsenal coaching staff. The club believe the loan spell will help her gain important experience at the highest level of the women’s game.
Harbert set for key WSL experience
The midfielder signed her first professional contract with Arsenal Women in January 2025. Renee Slegers’ side moved quickly at the time after identifying Harbert as a player with strong long term potential.
Since turning professional, Arsenal have been careful with her pathway. The club have focused on giving her steady exposure to senior football rather than rushing her progress.
Earlier in the season, Harbert spent a short loan spell with the Portland Thorns in the NWSL. She joined the American side for a couple of months before returning to Arsenal in December.
Arsenal have also sent Harbert out on loan in the past to Championship sides. She previously spent time with Watford and Southampton, gaining minutes and match rhythm.
Everton move and Arsenal focus ahead
Harbert will now spend the remainder of the 2025–26 season on loan with Everton. She joins Brian Sorensen’s side as they continue to search for improved results at home.
Everton have struggled at Goodison Park this season. They have drawn one match and lost six of their seven home games so far.
The Arsenal midfielder could make her Everton debut on Sunday. The Toffees are set to face Aston Villa at home in the league.
While Harbert heads to Merseyside, Arsenal Women will turn their attention elsewhere. The North London side are preparing for an important semi-final clash.
Arsenal are set to face Moroccan side AS FAR in the FIFA Women’s Championship Cup. Focus within the squad will now shift fully towards that fixture.
The club will be hoping the loan move benefits all parties. Harbert gains valuable minutes, Everton add depth, and Arsenal continue her planned development.
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