Wanted man: Manchester United are leading the race to
sign Theo Walcott
Manchester United have joined the race for Arsenal
rebel Theo Walcott in a move similar to Robin van Persie's
controversial switch to Old Trafford in August.
Sir Alex Ferguson is keen to land the England winger,
whose deal expires at the end of the season.
Sportsmail
understands that should Walcott leave Arsenal, his first choice
would be United.
He is said to be keen to stay but wants a deal closer to
£100,000 a week.
Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea are all interested,
but United's keenness, along with Walcott's desire to join the
Barclays Premier League leaders looks, looks to have put United in
the driving seat.
At the same time, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is
exploring a January swoop for United misfit Nani, raising the
chance of a swap deal with Walcott.
Arsenal will look to sell Walcott next month if a new deal
is not agreed by December 31, but the ex-Southampton man will not
be forced out and will only move to a club that suits
him.
Leading the way: Sir Alex Ferguson (left) is set to
beat Roberto Mancini (right)
Missing out: Sportsmail understands that Liverpool are
also keen on Walcott
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers will bid for the
forward in January, but United's interest has changed the landscape
of Walcott's future.
Likewise, Chelsea and City are keen but would prefer to
sign him on a free transfer next summer.
Walcott could be available for as little as £8million
given he has just six months left to run on his
deal.
