Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger believes that Liverpool and Manchester City target Theo Walcott has a ‘special destiny’ with the club, according to the Daily Star.
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The England international has been injured for much of the season, playing only 18 times for the Gunners in all competitions. He has also failed to complete 90 minutes in any of those matches, putting further question marks over his future with the club.
With the signing of Alexis Sanchez and form of Olivier Giroud, Walcott is also being confined to the right wing when playing. The 26-year-old has mentioned in the past his desire to play centrally, and this could entice the forward to move somewhere where that is possible.
While the Citizens are unlikely to offer that given the prominence of Sergio Aguero, Wilfried Bony, and Edin Dzeko at the Etihad, the Reds may be able to do so. Injuries to Daniel Sturridge, and the poor form of Mario Balotelli, Rickie Lambert, and Fabio Borini has left the Anfield outfit lacking in the area this campaign.
However, if his manager has his way Walcott will be staying at the Emirates for the foreseeable future. He said: “He came here at the age of 17 and has a special destiny. Theo is in line to make his 300th Arsenal appearance, which is amazing because he played from a very young age.
“Theo went to the [2006] World Cup without playing in the Premier League and then he missed the last World Cup because he was not available. It’s a strange fate. He has had an extraordinary career with some big setbacks, but he has recovered very well over time. I believe that he has a great mentality, a strong personality as well.”
He added: “He has developed well as a player because today he is a great finisher. He has certainly got one of the best qualities in the world, which is the timing of his runs off the ball – they are top quality. He also has exceptional pace, which he links with a great intelligence.”