Beth Mead set to stay at Arsenal despite significant offer from London City Lionesses | OneFootball

Credit: (Liam Asman/SPP)

Beth Mead has reportedly chosen to remain at Arsenal and fight for her place despite an ambitious offer from London City Lionesses earlier in the transfer window.

The Lionesses, who are preparing for their debut Women’s Super League campaign after securing promotion last year, had set their sights on the England forward as a marquee signing.

The move would have been a bold statement from the newly promoted side, particularly as Mead was part of England’s Euro 2025-winning squad.

However, the forward made her decision to stay with Arsenal several weeks ago, underlining her commitment to the club she has represented since 2017.

Beth Mead determined to continue key role at Arsenal

Mead remains a vital figure in manager Renee Slegers’ squad. The 30-year-old forward played a key part in Arsenal’s UEFA Women’s Champions League triumph last season, further cementing her place in the team.

Since joining Arsenal in 2017, Mead has become one of the club’s most reliable forwards with 78 goals in 225 games.

She has also been a standout performer for England, scoring 37 goals in 74 appearances. Mead was part of the team that won Euro 2025 and two years earlier she lit up Euro 2022, finishing as both Golden Boot winner and Player of the Tournament.

It is understood that only a very significant bid would have been enough for Arsenal to consider parting ways with her.

Instead, she will continue to be central to their ambitions both domestically and in Europe.

Who is leaving Arsenal?

While Mead stays, Arsenal will see the departure of long-serving midfielder Lia Walti. The Swiss international has joined Juventus after seven years in north London.

Walti leaves behind a decorated spell with the Gunners, during which she lifted one Women’s Super League title, two League Cups and the Champions League.

In total, Walti made 183 appearances for the club, becoming a reliable presence in midfield and a respected leader in the dressing room.

In her parting message, Walti admitted it was an extremely difficult decision to move on.

“This is without any doubt one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to take in my life, to leave this football club,” she said. “Arsenal is so much more than a football club for me. It became my home, my second family, my safe place. A place I always wanted to return to. And all I have in my heart right now are just beautiful memories I will always keep with me.”

Her departure marks the end of an era while Mead’s commitment signals continuity as Arsenal prepare for another demanding season.