Liverpool ready bid for Theo Walcott
Liverpool are ready to tempt Theo Walcott into a move away from Arsenal with a surprise £50million deal, according to reports.
The 27-year-old has been linked with an exit from the Emirates after a disappointing campaign that saw him miss out on a place in England’s Euro 2016 squad.
It is thought Walcott intends to stay at Arsenal and is willing to fight for his place next season despite being dropped to the bench for the last few months, with Olivier Giroud being favoured up front.
However, website Football Insider claim Liverpool are ready to offer Walcott a four-year deal worth £120,000-a-week and are looking into the possibility of launching a £25m bid, which the Gunners are willing to accept.
Walcott reportedly earns £110,000-a-week at Arsenal so the contract offer would represent a pay rise.
Reds boss Jurgen Klopp is not looking for a new striker but is in the market for versatile forwards with Bayern Munich's Mario Gotze and Southampton's Sadio Mane reportedly on the target list.
If Liverpool - or any other club - fail to meet Arsenal's valuation then Gunners manager Arsene Wenger is said to be happy for Walcott to stay and will look to use him in more of a wide role next season.
Liverpool will face competition for his signature, however, with Premier League rivals West Ham and Leicester being credited with interest in Walcott.
Walcott has scored 85 goals in 343 appearances for Arsenal, including nine from 42 matches this season.
Source: Daily Express
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