Everton Sign Talented Midfielder Harbert

Everton have signed midfielder Laila Harbert on loan from Arsenal until the end of the season.

The promising 19-year-old becomes the Toffees’ second loan addition of the January transfer window following the recent arrival of Hannah Blundell from Manchester United, as Brian Sorensen's look to strengthen for their inaugural season at Goodison Park.

A highly-rated England Under-23 international, Harbert expressed her excitement at walking out at Goodison and developing under head coach Sorensen, as the Blues return to WSL action on Sunday against Aston Villa at the Grand Old Lady (11.55am GMT).

“I am really excited to be here,” Harbert told evertontv. “It is a big club with big ambitions and I am really excited to get going.

“Goodison Park is a big stadium – one that I think I will enjoy playing in. I have heard the fans are really good as well, so it will be nice to see them on Sunday.

“I am a very passionate player myself. The fans getting behind us here will really help us towards the second half of the season.

“I can’t wait to meet everyone and get started. Hopefully, I can help the team kick on.

“One of the main reasons for coming is the potential to develop. It is really attractive for young players to grow as a player and a person. Brian gives young players that opportunity. Hopefully, I can take that now."

After progressing through the England youth groups, the young Lioness received her first call-up for the Under-23 squad in October 2025 and made her debut against Germany.

Now donning the royal blue of Everton, Harbert – who came through Arsenal's academy and also had loan spells with Southampton and US side Portland Thorns – hopes to continue her progress both domestically and on the international stage.

“There is no greater honour than playing for my country,” the midfielder continued. “Every time I wear the shirt, it is an honour. I am really excited to continue my journey.

“I am a central midfielder. I like to receive the ball under pressure. I am very technical and I like to pass. Hopefully, I can show what I can do here at Goodison.

“I am quite young but I have got some senior experience in other leagues than the WSL and now it is about competing and proving myself in this league.

“My first senior loan was at Watford and I was number 16 there with some special memories made. I want to continue making them here in an Everton shirt."