THEO WALCOTT would love to see Gareth Bale back at Southampton next season.
The Wales captain is a free agent after confirming his exit from Real Madrid this month and has no plans to retire after leading Wales to the World Cup.
Bale, 32, started his career in the Southampton academy alongside Walcott, who returned to St. Mary's from Everton in 2020.
There are thought to be ten clubs seriously considering a move for the Welsh winger this summer, with hometown side Cardiff pushing hard for a dream move.
There could be another homecoming, however, should Walcott get his way.
The two never lined up together for the first team, with Bale making his debut just months after Walcott joined Arsenal in January 2006.
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But the ex-Gunner is dreaming of doing just that next season.
Asked about a potential return for Bale, Walcott told TalkSport: "I am not the man to answer that but I would love him there, of course.
"There are a lot of teams, it is Gareth Bale.
"You can see what he does for Wales, it shows that he's still fit and hungry.
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"It will be very interesting, I am intrigued."
Despite having come through the academy together, it doesn't sound like Walcott could play a role in tempting Bale back to St. Mary's given the Welshman snubbed his recent messages.
Walcott said: "He's actually ignored my message the other day!
"I'm not really pleased about that, unless he has changed his number."
Some MLS clubs are also interested in signing the superstar, with DC United even willing to make him their highest-paid player in history.
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Rangers, Celtic, Newcastle and Tottenham have also been linked.
But Bale's next move will not be motivated by money, which opens the door for numerous clubs to attempt to negotiate a deal.
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