Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer says Arsenal will be doomed if they allow Theo Walcott to leave. Shearer explained in The Sun: "Lose him to one of the big three of Manchester United, Manchester City or Chelsea and I would not blame Arsenal fans for giving up.

"They have seen far too many good players leave with the departures of Cesc Fabregas and Robin van Persie the major body blows, of course.

"Let Walcott leave as well and they are on the back foot immediately when they try to bring any major signing to the Emirates.

"They made a big statement of intent recently by signing up five of their bright young stars on long-term deals, most notably Jack Wilshere.

"Convince Walcott as well that the future is bright and sign him up and suddenly they are moving in the right direction again."