Bournemouth have joined the race alongside Everton and Southampton for Arsenal’s Theo Walcott, according to The Sun.
The newspaper claim that Everton remain the favourites to sign the winger with Sam Allardyce willing to offer £20million to a seal deal.
The Sun report that Eddie Howe could tempt Walcott to join Bournemouth instead of Everton, due the attacker’s in-laws living in the area.
The Cherries, according to the same report, have contacted Arsenal regarding the 28-year-old.
The Toffees were previously confident of winning the race for Walcott, as along with paying £20million, they were willing to match the winger’s £140,000-per-week wages according to the Daily Mirror.
The 28-year-old has struggled for game time at Arsenal this season, making only six appearances in the league.
OPINION
Walcott was looking very likely to join Everton, given the fact Allardyce had publicly commented on the potential of him arriving. However, with his in-laws living in the area, the winger may be lured to Bournemouth. With the report failing to mention whether Bournemouth would be able to stump up the £20million and cover the England international’s high wages; it’s unknown whether they can pull off the deal. Howe’s side are in need of a player just like Walcott and after loaning Jack Wilshere from the Gunners last season, appear to have a good relationship with Arsenal. If the Toffees are able to fight off Bournemouth’s interest, then they should have no further problems completing a deal.