Chelsea on alert as Theo Walcott contract talks break down

Theo Walcott has put a host of clubs on alert after failing to agree an extension of his contract, which is due to run out next summer.

The Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger, is to plead with the board not to sell the youngster in January, in the hope that Theo will decide to sign an extension before the summer.

The board is rumoured to have other ideas on the subject, with the club not willing to risk losing the 23 year-old on a free. They will be hoping to recoup some of the £9million paid to Southampton for his signature.

With no reported talks set to take place between Theo and Arsenal before the January window opens, the England international will be allowed to talk to foreign clubs about a possible free-transfer from January 1.

English clubs such as Chelsea would be able to talk to the Ex-Southampton striker a month before his current deal runs out, should he have failed to agree a contract in the mean-time.

Speaking yesterday, Wenger said: ‘I am frustrated, honestly. If you ask me will we sell Theo in January, no. I have always been hopeful he will sign.’

Wenger made similar overtures to the Gunners board during the Samir Nasri and Robin van Persie sagas, yet both were sold as they entered the final 12 months of their contracts.

Chelsea are keen on the striker/winger, and I believe he would be a good signing for the club. Theo would fit in well with our young ambitious squad, and has impressed me with his performances this season. Theo to Chelsea?