Arsenal’s world-record bid for England midfielder Keira Walsh was rejected late in the Women’s Super League transfer window.
Despite Walsh having just one year left on her contract, European champions Barcelona were unwilling to part with the 27-year-old.
Reports from Spanish media suggest Arsenal’s offer was valued at £930,000. Barcelona, however, declined the bid, leaving them with limited time to find a replacement before the Spanish Liga F transfer window closes on Monday.
Walsh, who joined Barcelona in 2022 for a then-record fee of £400,000 from Manchester City, has informed the club she won’t renew her contract next summer, potentially leaving on a free transfer unless convinced otherwise.
Since joining, Walsh has won consecutive league and European titles with the Catalan side. Speaking on the situation, coach Pere Romeu dismissed any talk of a transfer, stating: “There’s no case for Keira leaving.
She’s been with us throughout pre-season and is a key player for us. She totally gets our style of play, is super professional, and has shown an amazing attitude and commitment from day one. So, we’re definitely counting on her this season.”
Walsh proved her value in Barca’s season opener, assisting in their 3-1 win over Real Sociedad on Friday.
Meanwhile, the current world record for a women’s transfer belongs to Zambia’s Racheal Kundananji, who joined Bay FC from Madrid CFF in February for £685,000.
