Arsenal could be set to complete first January deal, loan move eyed by PL rivals

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Amid speculation surrounding the futures of various key players on expiring contracts, it’s claimed Arsenal forward Theo Walcott could be the first to leave this month.

The 28-year-old has struggled badly to establish himself in Arsene Wenger’s plans so far this season, making just 13 appearances in all competitions.

Only four of those have come in the Premier League, none of them as a starter, with the England international primarily used as a squad player who has come in for the Europa League. In his defence, he’s played well in Europe grabbing three goals and five assists in five games.

That’s obviously not what Walcott wants at this stage of his career though, as he’ll be desperate to play week in and week out in the league, and that in turn has led to the suggestion he could move on.

According to The Daily Mail, Southampton want him back after his exit in 2006, as they are considering a loan move for him this month.

Everton, Watford, Bournemouth, West Ham, Newcastle United and Swansea City are all mentioned in the report as being interested parties too, and so it appears as though Walcott has a decision to make if he indeed intends on leaving the Emirates.

It’s arguably about time Wenger offloaded him in truth, as he has never really entirely convinced and established himself as a key figure for the Gunners.

In 12-and-a-half seasons in north London, Walcott has only ever reached the 20+ goals mark in all competitions just once, in the 2012/13 campaign.

Albeit he hasn’t always been given his wish of playing up front, that’s still a poor return given how prominently he has featured, although he did get 19 in 37 last season, which may have suggested he was at least a useful piece in the squad.

However, with ongoing speculation over a loan exit, it remains to be seen whether or not he has a long-term future with Arsenal.

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