Everton are now favourites to sign Theo Walcott, as they have a better chance than Southampton of affording his wages.

Walcott is having a forgettable season and could be on the move this month. Reports have linked him with a return to Southampton, but it appears Everton are now the favourites to sign him.

According to the Daily Mail, Everton are in a stronger financial position than the Saints and can offer Walcott something close to his current Arsenal wages. He’s believed to be on £110,000 per week at the club.

Southampton have made no secret of their interest in Walcott, who came through their youth academy. Having just sold Virgil van Dijk to Liverpool for £75m, Saints fans were hoping that the money would go straight back into the first team.

Virgil van Dijk

As it turns out, that won’t be the case. According to the Times, Southampton will not be receiving that £75m straight away. They report that Liverpool will pay the fee in three instalments overs three years.

In addition, £6m of Van Dijk’s fee will be paid to Celtic due to a sell-on clause they had in the defender’s contract. As a result, Southampton have only received around £17m this month.

If they can’t afford his transfer fee and wages, it’s possible that Walcott could join them on loan, although previous reports have indicated that his wages could still be an issue.

Southampton aren’t entirely without hope, as the Mail also say Walcott could be reluctant to move his family from the south of England.

Walcott made his fifth appearance in the Premier League when he came off the bench during the 2-2 draw with Chelsea. He’s barely been used in the league, and hasn’t been very impressive in the cup games either.