---
title: "Walcott open to January transfer but prefers loan switch"
canonical: "https://readsouthampton.com/2017/12/29/walcott-open-january-transfer-prefers-loan-switch/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Elliott Cuff"
section: "Feature Writers"
published: "2017-12-29T22:47:43Z"
modified: "2017-12-29T22:47:43Z"
---

# Walcott open to January transfer but prefers loan switch

Theo Walcott is open to leaving Arsenal in January, but would prefer a loan move away from the Emirates, [according to football.london](https://www.football.london/arsenal-fc/transfer-news/theo-walcott-arsenal-transfers-everton-14094315).

Walcott is yet to start a single Premier League game for Arsenal this season, appearing in just four league games for a combined total of 47 minutes.

All eight of the former Southampton man’s starts this season have come in either the Carabao Cup or the Europa League, and the 28-year old is aware that he needs to leave the Emirates to reignite his career.

However, football.london understand that Walcott would prefer a loan move if he is to leave the club he has been at since 2006 in the new year.

For other interested clubs, a loan move makes sense economically, with Walcott’s £100,00 plus weekly wage proving problematic. However, after selling Virgil van Dijk to Liverpool for £75million this week, the Saints have the necessary funds to pull the move off.

However, Walcott believes that he is still good enough to play for a top six side, and he wants a loan move to help put himself in the shop window, ahead of joining a more prestigious club in the summer.

While a permanent move isn’t out of the question, it seems that a loan switch is most likely in the January window.

Everton, West Ham and a number of other clubs are also interested in Walcott’s services.