West Bromwich Albion held discussions over signing Theo Walcott, reveals manager Alan Pardew

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Alan Pardew has revealed West Bromwich Albion held discussions about signing Theo Walcott but were quickly priced out of the running.

Walcott is set to make his Everton debut when West Brom visit Goodison Park, although Pardew explored the possibility of bringing the former Arsenal forward to the Hawthorns.

‘With players like Theo, is it a straight deal or one which could be a loan and a deal in the summer? All these equations have to be discussed,’ Pardew said.

Alan Pardew has revealed West Bromwich Albion held discussions about signing Theo Walcott

Pardew says West Brom were priced out of the running, with Walcott joining Everton instead

‘Did we discuss Theo? Yes, we did, but it was pretty evident after a few phone calls that it wasn’t going to be the case. He went to Everton.

‘It’s how you react, right up to the last two days, sometimes the last hours. We don’t want to be in a position going into those last three days in that equation, when the better options have already gone and you’re left with options that don’t work.’

Pardew is desperate to strengthen his attack but can only press forward with prospective moves for Troy Deeney or Danny Ings if Jonny Evans is sold.

Pardew is desperate to strengthen his attack and is keen on a move for Troy Deeney

The West Brom manager said Manchester City and Arsenal had not been in contact this week.

The club’s move for Ali Gabr, an Egyptian centre-back, is contingent on Evans leaving. West Brom are discussing a loan with a view to a permanent deal in the summer but are apart on figures with Zamalek.

West Brom are strongly in the running for Stevenage’s sought-after right-back Ben Wilmot. The 18-year-old has only made six first-team appearances but is being scouted by a host of clubs including Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham. 

However West Brom can only make major signings this month if Jonny Evans is sold