Arsenal boss Jonas Eidevall blames 'people who want attention' for Lia Walti to Real Madrid transfer rumours and reveals Gunners' stance on selling midfielder

The 30-year-old has been the focus of rumours that she could leave north London this month or in the summer. After agreeing to a new deal only recently, the Swiss midfielder has been a crucial member of the Gunners' midfield since signing in 2018. But rumours claimed Walti was eager for a fresh challenge in the upcoming season as Arsenal looks to bolster their midfield with younger players. However, Eidevall was quick to extinguish any flames of doubt regarding his prized midfielder's move away from the club.

Speaking to the media on Friday, Eidevall said: "Obviously [those rumours came] from people who want attention. That Lia Walti could be leaving definitely falls under the category of being with no truth whatsoever. I understand it’s hard for fans to know - but this one I can say definitely not."

Walti has made 129 appearances for the Gunners, scoring two goals, and helped them win the FA Women's League Cup last season in addition to the Women's Super League championship in her first season in 2018. However, behind her, there are others like Victoria Pelova, Kathrine Kuhl and Kyra Cooney-Cross, all of whom are seen as the future generation, which could lead to Walti's decision to move away from the Gunners.

The Swede will be in action for the Gunners as they return to Women's Super League action when they take on Everton on Saturday, January 20. Eidevall's side will look to keep up the chase with Chelsea and Manchester City at the WSL summit.