Allardyce confirms Everton are in talks over Walcott

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Sam Allardyce has confirmed that Everton are in talks to sign Theo Walcott from Arsenal.

Everton boss Allardyce is keen to take Walcott, 28, to Goodison Park during this month’s transfer window.

And, speaking at a news conference on Friday morning, the former England manager confirmed his interest in signing the player.

“If that’s at all possible that would be nice,” Allardyce said.

“It’s not imminent but negotiations are going on and we’re hoping to negotiate a permanent deal.

“I don’t get optimistic otherwise I get disappointed. I’ll be very excited and enthused when someone, even if it’s not Theo has signed on the dotted line.

“He’s proven. He’s scored 100 goals for Arsenal from wide positions as well as many assists. He has pace which we lack in this squad.

“We’re short of goals goals so to add power to our goal-scoring would be very important for me – and he’s only 28.”

Walcott has been at Arsenal for 12 years, having been signed from Southampton in January 2006.

His first-team chances have been limited of late – he has made just 15 appearances for the Gunners this season, scoring four goals.

Walcott, who has made a total of 269 Premier League appearances for Arsenal, has also been linked with a possible return to Southampton.