Arsene Wenger makes decision on Theo Walcott’s Arsenal future

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has reportedly told Theo Walcott that he can leave Arsenal this month.

The Gambling Times reports Walcott has been given the green light to move out on loan or a permanent deal as Wenger clears the decks this month.

Wenger has admitted he expects to be busy this month with several departures likely and Walcott, 28, looks likely to head the list of high-profile exits.

Walcott has 18-months left on his current deal, and given he is on £110,000 a week, a loan move is more likely to transpire than a permanent one.

His former cub Southampton are keen to take him back, while Everton, Crystal Palace, Newcastle and Watford are also in the running for him.

The Corriere dello Sport also claim that AC Milan are interested on taking Walcott, who was a late sub in last night’s 2-2 draw with Chelsea.

Walcott is understood to be keen on a move to Serie A, according to the Italian source, although the Rossoneri would not be able to match his wages, which would likely prove a stumbling block.

Walcott has not given up hope on a place in Gareth Southgate’s England squad, but he has made just 15 appearances for Arsenal and has yet to start in the Premier League this term, and knows he needs to move to get some game time.

Walcott will apparently be left to decide where he would like to go, but he does have the option of staying to fight for his place.