AC Milan have reportedly turned down the chance to sign Theo Walcott this month, as Southampton close in on the England international.

Fichajes report that Arsenal offered the winger to the Italian club, but they responded “thank you, but no”. Previously, reports in Italy suggested Walcott offered himself to Milan, but we looked into the fact that doesn’t seem very likely. His family live in England, he’s always played here and he has offers from English clubs.

It seems like a bit of a risk to move to Italy now, when he’s about to turn 29. But if the rumours are true, it’s not great for Walcott’s confidence, nor for Arsenal’s prospect of offloading the England international this window.

Southampton look the closest to procuring his signature, so his future looks to be in the Premier League regardless. It’s just unknown how much Arsenal will agree. Knowing the Saints made £75m from van Dijk, that might bump up Walcott’s value.

The 28-year-old didn’t perform well at all against Nottingham Forest at the weekend, drawing the ire of supporters as a result. Walcott may be open to a move for a fresh challenge as he’s struggled for game time this campaign.

Hopefully the English forward and Arsenal find some sort of resolution before the end of the window.