Everton monday transfer round-up: Walcott deal edges closer

The Blues look set to sign Theo Walcott from Arsenal. Everton are expected to play more than £20 million for the forward.

At the halfway point in January, Everton have made some progress in retooling their team for the months ahead. It wasn’t an ideal end to Ross Barkley’s career on Merseyside, as the 24-year-old left in a cutprice deal to Chelsea.

Most would agree however that Kevin Mirallas was ready to go. He departed to Olympiacos.

Since acquiring Turkish forward Cenk Tosun, Everton have made no further forays into the transfer market. The team is desperate for reinforcements though.

The terrible display at Tottenham demonstrated an urgent need for better players in several positions. Full-back is surely the most critical area to restock.

Walcott set to arrive soon

According to BBC Sport, Everton are in the process of making a deal to bring Theo Walcott to Goodison Park. This would be a shrewd signing for the Blues. Walcott has scored 65 goals for Arsenal in 269 appearances, despite playing most of his minutes on the wing.

The deal is yet to be confirmed, and Everton are not the only club in the market. According to Ollie Salt writing for the Daily Star, four clubs are interested in Walcott.

Worryingly, Southampton are amongst the group, the club where Walcott started his footballing career. Everton will have to move quickly to make sure the Saints don’t get a foot in the door.

News on the defence

As per the last Monday round up, there is no news on signings at the back. This is despite a desperate need for wide cover, considering Allardyce is running Cuco Martina and Jonjoe Kenny into the ground.

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The Liverpool Echo speculate that Luke Garbutt could play next week. Surely acquiring a new player is the best option?

Currently, Luke Shaw remains the most discussed potential signing. As reported in the Daily Star, the Blues may want the 21-year-old on a short-term loan.

Shaw is still some way from match-fitness, and Merseyside could be the perfect place for him to regain his strength. He would definitely slot straight into the starting XI.

A loan is a short-term solution, but is not the long-term answer Everton need. Leighton Baines is now 33, and an heir at left-back is an urgent requirement.

If Shaw looks like the real deal, Everton would do well to pursue a transfer rather than a borrow. Hopefully more positive news will be announced in the coming weeks.

Next: Everton hammered as Kane claims Spurs record

Now over to you. Would Theo Walcott be a good signing? Who do you think Everton need to buy? Where do the Blues need to strengthen? Comment with your thoughts below.