SAINTS look set to miss out on number one transfer target Theo Walcott after the BBC reported that Everton are "close to agreeing deal" for the Arsenal man.

The Toffees are believed be nearing a deal worth "more than £20m" for the 28-year-old, who Saints had hoped to bring back to St Mary's.

Saints were confident of landing the England international but with Everton prepared to spend big, it seems their hopes of signing their former star are fading.

Toffees boss Sam Allardyce sees a move to Goodison as a chance for Walcott to reignite his faltering career.

"I think you are all aware of our interest in Theo. If that is possible to get over the line I'd be delighted," said Allardyce.

"Obviously there are negotiations that are happening at the moment and if that can all be sorted out - one of the most difficult things to do today - then that would be a great addition in my opinion to come and join us from an attacking point of view.

"Two or three reasons really: goalscoring threat, pace, experience and he's good on assists from wide areas in terms of his crossing ability.

"Theo's not as risky (as Tosun) because he's proven. He's scored 100 goals for Arsenal from wide positions as well as many assists.

"His pace is one of his key strengths, which we lack in this squad. His assists are pretty good as well as his goals.

"We are short of goals so to add power in our goalscoring ability would be very important for me if we can negotiate that transfer - and he's only 28.

"I wouldn't have thought a player today would have any qualms about where he moves now if he is moving for his career.

"I wouldn't think he had that mentality that it was not the right place to go to get first-team football. It's 'Have boots, will travel' now isn't it?

"I don't think there's any chance of a loan so I think it is a permanent deal we're hoping to negotiate. It is not imminent at the moment but some negotiations are going on."

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