Everton will reportedly offer Theo Walcott a fresh start when the transfer window reopens, but how much would he bring to the forward line?
Everton have been linked to Theo Walcott before. As such, the latest speculation should come as little — if any — surprise to Evertonians.
As per a report from the Daily Mail‘s Joe Strange, the Blues have made an inquiry about Walcott. As a result, they are apparently preparing to make an offer to Arsenal, when the transfer window reopens in January.
This understandably leads to the question of why the 28-year-old would move from North London? After all, the Gunners are still in Europe and challenging for a top four spot.
Regardless, Everton are going to sell Walcott on the idea of a fresh start, for a club which appears headed in the right direction under Sam Allardyce. The forward has struggled for playing time this season and moving to Goodison Park could boost his chances of a World Cup place with England.
It doesn’t matter that Walcott captained the Gunners on Tuesday night, in their League Cup win against West Ham United. As Strange notes, he has yet to start a Premier League game this season, coming off the subs bench on just three occasions.
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As with Olivier Giroud, Arsene Wenger is reluctant to sell Walcott, but at some point the Arsenal boss has to consider the player’s future. He has just 18 months remaining on his current deal and could theoretically leave for nothing, especially if he continues to be left out of the starting lineup.
The two-time FA Cup winner is on a weekly wage of around £140,000, which is something Everton can probably afford. However, is he worth the risk?
As much as Walcott has talent, you can argue he has never really lived up to it and probably never will. In addition, he has had issues with durability during his career.
Of course, all players come with varying degrees of risk. Plus, there is no denying the former Southampton player’s pace would be a shot in the arm for Everton.
In truth, Giroud would be a preferable option and more likely to help the Blues in attack. However, as far as a backup option goes, you can understand why Walcott would appeal to Allardyce.
Next: Blues' monthly loan watch
What’s your opinion of Walcott? Do you rate him? Would you like to see Everton sign him or not, and why? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.