Arsenal reportedly could include Theo Walcott in a deal for Southampton defender Virgil van Dijk this summer.

In a busy day of rumours and developments of long-running sagas, we can’t ignore this little gem. According to Tribal Football, in what they describe as a big Emanuele Guilianelli exclusive, Arsenal could include Theo Walcott in a deal for Virgil van Dijk.

The report claims that while Southampton do not want to sell van Dijk, they could be convinced if they’re offered Walcott, who they’ve wanted to sign for a while.

It would be an extraordinary deal, allowing Arsenal to offload a squad player on big wages for a centre-back they desperately need. It’s literally too good to be true. Arsenal have an interest in van Dijk but don’t feel they have a realistic chance of signing him by the end of the window.

Southampton have been adamant about not selling him despite the player handing in a transfer request. They have just three more days to hold out. Arsenal appear to be targeting West Brom’s Jonny Evans instead.

I really can’t see this deal going anywhere. Why Southampton would allow van Dijk to leave the club for Walcott is unknown. The Dutch international has been linked with Liverpool and Manchester City this summer. Walcott’s value is significantly lower.