Everton set to move for Theo Walcott in January

LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 14: Theo Walcott of Arsenal and Leonardo Bittencourt of FC Koeln in action during the UEFA Europa League group H match between Arsenal FC and 1. FC Koeln at Emirates Stadium on September 14, 2017 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 14: Theo Walcott of Arsenal and Leonardo Bittencourt of FC Koeln in action during the UEFA Europa League group H match between Arsenal FC and 1. FC Koeln at Emirates Stadium on September 14, 2017 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images) /
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Everton are reportedly interested in signing Theo Walcott but will face competition from other clubs, including the forward’s former team, Southampton.

Another day and another rumour connecting Everton to a forward. However — for what it’s worth — the latest speculation is an intriguing one, worth listening to.

As reported by ESPN FC, Theo Walcott could be set to leave Arsenal, due to his inability to secure a regular starting spot at the club this season. As a result, Everton are apparently primed to make a move for the unsettled forward.

Now, it’s important to note ESPN writes Walcott could leave next summer, rather than signing a new deal. (His current contract runs out in August 2019.) However, the Blues are still expected to register their interest, when the transfer window reopens in January.

The question is, would the 28-year-old represent a good signing for Everton? As usual, it comes down to perception.

On the one hand, Walcott has the type of speed Ronald Koeman’s side desperately needs, while also being fairly prolific, with more than 100 goals during his time at Arsenal. However, this is somewhat offset by his critics, who say he is overpaid and overrated.

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So what’s the reality? Our perspective is Walcott has never fulfilled his potential, but has still performed well enough, that he would be an attribute to the Toffees.

As for the player himself, it is easy to believe the England international is considering leaving, with last season perhaps best representing his frustrating tenure with the Gunners. He scored the second-most goals of his career, but was also an unused substitute in the FA Cup Final, when Arsenal beat Chelsea.

This is not the first time Everton have been linked with Walcott. The Mirror‘s John Richardson previously reported the club’s interest in him, during the summer.

Assuming Walcott does decide to leave Arsenal, the Blues can expect a lot of competition for his services. As per The Express, this will reportedly include his former club, Southampton.

Next: Where will Ross Barkley end up in January?

What do you make of the Blues’ alleged interest in Walcott? Is he the type of player you’d like to see at Everton, or would you prefer they look elsewhere? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.