THEO WALCOTT is at the centre of a transfer tug-of-war with five Premier League sides hoping to seal a loan deal for the Everton winger.
It is understood Walcott, 31, is not part of Carlo Ancelotti’s long-term vision at Goodison Park.
Walcott is rumoured to be a loan target for West Ham, Crystal Palace and three other Prem sidesCredit: Getty Images – Getty
And TeamTalk claims the Italian has told Walcott he is free to make a switch to another club.
It is thought West Ham and Crystal Palace are among the teams after the former Arsenal forward’s signature.
Newcastle, Fulham and Walcott’s boyhood club Southampton, are also rumoured to be mulling over moves.
Walcott moved to Everton for £20million in January 2018, after being one of Arsene Wenger’s longest-serving Arsenal players.
And the striker, who has netted ten times in 77 Premier League matches for the Toffees, has made two appearances this term.
Everton have enjoyed a storming start to the season winning their first four Premier League games.
The Merseysiders’ new 4-4-3 structure has been successful so far with James Rodriguez and Richarlison offering an energetic attacking threat down the flanks.
New signing Rodriguez, 29, has made an instant impact netting three goals in his first four appearances.
Walcott has faced a battle for an Everton starting spot following the summer arrival of James RodriguezCredit: EPA
This includes a brace in Everton’s 4-2 win against Brighton today.
The last time the Toffees won their first four league matches in a season was back in 1969-70.
And during that term the club went on to win the league title finishing ahead of Leeds and Chelsea.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk