Arsenal FC keen on Jesus Navas as replacement for Theo Walcott – report

Arsenal are reportedly lining up a bid for Sevilla winger Jesus Navas as a possible replacement for Theo Walcott.

Walcott is out of contract next summer and continues to be linked with a number of clubs from across Europe, with Chelsea and Liverpool both believed to be keen.

Arsenal are said to fear that following Robin van Persie’s move to Manchester United last week, Walcott may follow his former captain’s lead and look to secure a move away from Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger admitted last week that a new deal was yet to be agreed, and according to the Daily Mail, 26-year-old Navas is seen as a possible replacement for the England international.

Reports earlier this year had suggested Walcott, who currently earns around £65,000 a week, was seeking a new £100,000-a-week deal.

The Gunners are said to be unwilling to offer him more than £80,000.

Wenger has confirmed he will look to bring in a midfielder before the transfer window closes as a result of Alex Song’s £15million move to Barcelona, and reports in Spain on Wednesday had suggested that the Frenchman could look to bring in his second Spaniard of the summer following the recent signing of Santi Cazorla.

AS had reported on Wednesday that Cazorla had recommended Navas to his new manager, although the Gunners’ interest dates back some two years.