Harry eyeing £10m swoop for Spurs' slayer Walcott - if England job falls through

By Sportsmail Reporter


Harry Redknapp will offer Theo Walcott an escape from Arsenal's boo-boys this summer - if he remains manager of Tottenham.

The Gunners winger sank Redknapp's Spurs team with two brilliantly taken goals in the 5-2 thriller at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, but has been targeted by some fans frustrated with Arsenal's slump this season.

Redknapp is expected to be named as the next England manager, where he would bring Walcott into the heart of the squad, but is still monitoring the forward's club situation.

Derby hero: Theo Walcott brushed off fans' boos to score twice against Spurs

Derby hero: Theo Walcott brushed off fans' boos to score twice against Spurs

Fine finish: Walcott deftly lifts his first goal over Spurs keeper Brad Friedel

Fine finish: Walcott deftly lifts his first goal over Spurs keeper Brad Friedel

Walcott is out of contract in 2013 and is demanding a big wage hike, which could force Arsenal to sell. The Berkshire-born ace is unlikely to sign a new deal until it is clear whether Arsenal qualify for the Champions League next season.

 

Redknapp has long been an admirer, having handed Walcott his debut as a 16-year-old at Southampton, and made an attempt to sign the now 22-year-old flyer last summer.

Spurs chairman Daniel Levy willl allow Redknapp to make a £10million bid should he retain his manager at White Hart Lane.

Painful viewing: Harry Redknapp saw Walcott tear his Spurs side apart on Sunday

Painful viewing: Harry Redknapp saw Walcott tear his Spurs side apart on Sunday

Walcott's brace against Tottenham was his first goals at the Emirates for over a year, but Redknapp believes he could get much more out of Walcott than Arsenal have by concentrating on boosting his confidence.

The 64-year-old former Portsmouth and West Ham boss is not alone in chasing Walcott, however.

Chelsea have made him a top target as they seek to inject pace into the ageing Blues side, while Liverpool are also interested. Manchester City are also pondering a bid.

Wanted man: Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger (right) faces a fight to keep Walcott

Wanted man: Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger (right) faces a fight to keep Walcott

Redknapp said of Walcott's display against Spurs: 'Theo is a great talent.

'For Arsenal's third goal, he ran for 80 yards to get on to the ball as well as showing real desire.'


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