Southampton Set to Sign Theo Walcott on Loan

Southampton are increasingly confident of signing Theo Walcott on a season-long loan from Everton, in a deal that will see them pay around 50 per cent of his wages, Dan Sheldon can reveal. Walcott came through the academy at Southampton before joining Arsenal in a £12 million move in 2006.

The 31-year-old is struggling to figure in Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti's plans and his former club have made an approach about a loan move, although no deal has been struck yet.

Walcott, who has played for England 47 times, started his career at Southampton before moving to Arsenal in 2006.

Everton signed him from The Gunners in a £20m deal in January 2018.

Southampton are keen on adding a wide player/midfielder to their squad and at least two other Premier League clubs have enquired about Walcott, but he is believed to be keen on a return to the south coast.

The arrival of Walcott would add experience to their youthful squad and depth to Saints' wide options.

Southampton are hoping to let Dutch defender Wesley Hoedt, 26, Moroccan winger Sofiane Boufal, 27, and Argentine striker Guido Carrillo, 29, go out on transfer deadline day, and that would help make financial room for any potential deal.

English goalkeeper Angus Gunn, 24, could also be set to leave Saints.

October 05, 2020