Rumour Reel: Will Walcott and Chilwell swap clubs this summer?
Jamie Clark, Sports Editor | May 21, 2016
Premier League champions Leicester City are linked with an ambitious move for overlooked England attacker Theo Walcott in the weekend tabloids.
Losing his place in the Gunners XI had a negative knock-on effect for Walcott’s Euro 2016 hopes, as Three Lions boss Roy Hodgson left him off his preliminary roster for the France finals.
Walcott and Chilwell going opposite ways?
The Foxes’ interest in Walcott can be taken one of two ways; either Claudio Ranieri is seeking to strengthen his squad ahead of next term’s Champions League campaign, or he sees the player as a potential replacement for star winger Riyad Mahrez.
Walcott may also be used as bait by Arsenal to persuade Leicester into parting with up-and-coming left back Ben Chilwell.
That area is one that is perceived by many pundits for the Gunners to improve. Teenage talent Chilwell is highly-rated, but not getting first-team football at the King Power Stadium because of the fine form of Austria international Christian Fuchs.
Funes Mori and Lindelof to United?
At Old Trafford, meanwhile, FA Cup finalists Manchester United could be about splash out on a couple of defenders for next term.
Everton’s Argentina international centre back Ramiro Funes Mori is linked to the Red Devils, alongside Sweden and Benfica breakthrough talent Victor Lindelof.
The Toffees reportedly want at least £23m for Funes Mori, with Serie A side Lazio also interested, while it may be wise of United to move for Lindelof before Euro 2016 where he is set to represent his country.
Chelsea chase trio
Fallen Premier League giants Chelsea continue to pursue Belgium midfielder Radja Nainggolan from Roma, plus Everton duo Romelu Lukaku and John Stones, as incoming coach Antonio Conte seeks to build a squad with a new spine that can restore the club to the top four.
Where could Lukaku be off to this summer? A return to Stamford Bridge remains the destination most likely, despite comments from his father suggesting Manchester United and Bayern Munich.
Related
Check out previous editions of the Rumour Reel to ensure you don’t miss any important summer gossip.
