Share

Everton in talks to sign Arsenal's Walcott

London - Everton are in talks with Arsenal to sign out-of-favour England forward Theo Walcott as Sam Allardyce seeks to bolster his side's goal threat.

Talks have opened with the Gunners over a potential 20 million ($27 million, 22 million euros) deal for the 28-year-old, who has just 18 months remaining on his contract.

Walcott has made just 15 appearances this season but has yet to make a Premier League start for Arsene Wenger's side.

"I think you are all aware of our interest in Theo," said Everton boss Allardyce, who has already strengthened his forward line with the purchase of Beskitas striker Cenk Tosun. "If that is possible to get over the line I'd be delighted.

"Obviously there are negotiations that are happening at the moment and if that can all be sorted out - one of the most difficult things to do today - then that would be a great addition in my opinion to come and join us from an attacking point of view.

"Two or three reasons really - goalscoring threat, pace, experience and he's good on assists from wide areas in terms of his crossing ability.

"Theo's not as risky (as Tosun) because he's proven. He's scored 100 goals for Arsenal from wide positions as well as many assists."

Tosun is set for his debut against Tottenham at Wembley on Saturday but Allardyce admits he has taken a gamble bringing in the Turkey international in January.

"It is not easy at all, it might not work. It is a massive problem in terms of you are hoping rather than being guaranteed he hits the ground running," said the Toffees boss.

"When you look at the number of players who have been brought into this country from abroad, even in the summer, and not worked, particularly up front, it is a risk."

Allardyce's arrival at Everton at the end of November had an immediate impact as they played their way away from the relegation zone but their progress has stalled.

Although comfortably in mid-table, the Merseyside club have not won in their past four Premier League matches and have scored just a single goal in those games.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE