SAM WON’T COMMIT TO CENTRAL ROLE FOR THEO
SAM ALLARDYCE will not guarantee Theo Walcott a central striking role if he succeeds in signing the Arsenal star this month. The manager confirmed his interest in Walcott on Friday, with Everton hoping to tie up a £20million deal by the end of the month. Walcott’s versatility has been of significant benefit to Arsene Wenger during the forward’s 12 years in north London and the Arsenal manager has used him in a range of attacking roles. But England man Walcott has spoken of his preference to play as a central attacker in recent years. Allardyce said: ‘I don’t know where I’ll play him until we get that deal done. ‘When that deal’s done I can have that conversation with him. I see him playing anywhere across the front three and I’m presuming if he’s not comfortable with that then he’ll tell us and it won’t happen. ‘We’d have that conversation if we were going to secure that transfer and we’ll see where it goes from there.’ Everton are facing stiff competition from Southampton in the race to land Walcott. Moving to St Mary’s would certainly have an emotional lure for the attacker. Walcott started his career on the south coast before leaving for Arsenal in 2006. On top of that, he would not have to uproot his family from their southern base, which could be a factor for Walcott. However, Everton’s financial muscle means they are far likelier to get nearer to the forward’s current £110,000-per-week salary at Arsenal. At the age of 28, Walcott’s next contract is likely to be his final big deal, so finances could yet prove a crucial factor in the race to secure his services. Arsenal are likely to listen to offers for Walcott, but would prefer to make a decision on his future later in the transfer window.