Could Arsenal’s Theo Walcott revive his stagnant career with a £30m move to Everton?

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As Everton continue to splash the cash this summer, the Mirror claim that they could now set their sights on Arsenal forward Theo Walcott in what would be a £30 million deal for the 28-year-old.

What would he bring to Goodison Park?

Pace and attacking threat down the flanks, something which is missing from the Everton attack even in spite of their latest signings. With Gerard Deulofeu having left the club, the pace of Walcott would bring another option to Ronald Koeman’s squad.

With 19 goals in 37 games, it is often forgotten just what a prolific threat Walcott can be. Whilst he may not be threatening enough to be the club’s first choice striker, he adds goals from out wide and in midfield which could be crucial at Goodison Park without the regular contribution from the recently departed Romelu Lukaku.

Would Walcott want the move?

Everton are undoubtedly an exciting project at the moment given the heavy investment going into the squad, even on top of the money being reinvested from the sale of Romelu Lukaku. Despite that, for the time being at least, the Toffees don’t have much more to offer than the Gunners and will be fighting for Europa League and possibly Champions League football, too.

In addition, Walcott seems happy in London and can be comfortable knowing that he has an important role in the squad. The club’s longest serving player, he may be reluctant to leave his settled life in the capital to move north, particularly without a guaranteed role with a World Cup on the horizon.

Would Arsenal consider a deal?

Walcott has always split fans at the Emirates with his inconsistent form, but there has never been any kind of indication that Arsene Wenger or club bosses are unhappy with him. That would suggest that they are unlikely to sell, even if a big bid is made by Everton.

The availability of a replacement could be crucial, and it seems unlikely that the Gunners would allow Walcott to leave now that they have missed out on Champions League football. It would be a gamble to allow Walcott to leave if Alexis Sanchez follows, and it is hard to see £30 million being enough to make it a risk worth taking.