It was reported yesterday that Southampton were willing to cut a deal with the Gunners if Theo Walcott was thrown in the mix.
But, according to football journalist Emanuele Giulianelli, the Saints’ move for Walcott is a “non-starter”.
Giulianelli, who made the original claim, tweeted: “Walcott to Southampton seems to be a non-starter.
“He was willing to join on £180k per week but Saints would only offer around £130k.”
Walcott started his career at Southampton before joining Arsenal at the age of 16 in 2006.
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The 28-year-old has failed to start a game this season and Arsene Wenger needs to trim his squad before landing new signings.
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is desperate to sign Van Dijk to bolster his flimsy defence.
Kop bosses are plotting a club-record bid ahead of tomorrow’s transfer deadline.
Liverpool abandoned a move for Van Dijk earlier this summer after Southampton accused them of an illegal approach.
Saints chiefs rejected a transfer request from Van Dijk last month.
He is currently training away from Mauricio Pellegrino’s first team.
