108-goal former Arsenal star has been training with League One side and is set for summer move

Reading are hoping to officially sign former Arsenal star Theo Walcott this summer, following his departure from Southampton at the end of the season. The Saints were relegated from the Premier League after finishing rock bottom in the table, and the 34-year-old joined a list of players headed for the exit.

According to reporter Andy Preston, a deal between the two parties “is close” to being completed as Reading prepare for life in League One next season. The Royals also faced relegation after falling into the bottom three of the Championship last campaign, and now they are eyeing up the former Premier League icon to bolster their chances of returning to tier two.

Walcott has even been training at Bearwood, in recent weeks, however it is unclear whether it was simply some local training or in preparation for something more long-term, according to James Earnshaw of the Reading Chronicle. He also reported that Walcott was “very keen” on a move to the Select Car Leasing Stadium last season, but talks fell through.

Walcott is looking for his next challenge after leaving Southampton last month following the expiraton of his contract. The winger rejoined the Saints on a two-year deal in 2021, following a previous loan move. Prior to that, he was on Everton’s books for three-and-a-half years following his departure from Arsenal in 2018.

Walcott dedicated 12 years of his career to the Gunners and he made just shy of 400 appearances, contributing 108 goals and 80 assists in that time. He also won two FA Cups with the North Londoners and scored the opening goal in the 2015 final as Arsenal beat Aston Villa 4-0.

At 34, many would believe the former England international is nearing the end of his career but he still has some life left in him and he could play a big role in Reading’s promotion chase, if the deal comes to fruition.