Manchester United have joined the race for Arsenal's contract rebel Theo Walcott, according to the Daily Mail, in a move that would echo former Gunner Robin van Perise, switching to Manchester United during the summer transfer window.
United are believed to be Walcott's first choice should he leave the Emirates, and it is thought Sir Alex Ferguson is keen to bring in the England international whose deal expires at the end of the season.
Contract negotiations between Walcott and Arsenal have broken down and have not taken place since August 28, after the player turned down their £75,000 a week offer. It is thought the player is looking for around £100,000, a sum which Arsenal are unlikely to offer Walcott.
Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea are all still interested in the forward but United's keenness, along with Waclott's desire to join the Premier League leaders looks to have given United the edge over their rivals.
At the same time, Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is exploring the possibility of bringing in out-of-favour Manchester United winger Luis Nani, who would make an ideal replacement should the former Southampton man leave the London club. Arsenal will look to sell Walcott next month if a new deal cannot be agreed, rather than risk losing the player for nothing next summer.
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers will big for the forward in January but United's interest has changed the landscape of Walcott's future.
Chelsea and Manchester City are still keen to sign the player would rather wait until the summer where they would be able to sign the player on a free.
Walcott could be available for as little as £8 million given he has just six months left to run on his current deal at Arsenal.
Source: DSG
