Theo Walcott and his agent are to meet with Arsenal officials this week to discuss a new contract, and rather than asking for more money, they will demand a brand new hat - for Walcott to place his match-balls in.
Walcott scored three times - a hat-trick in football terms - against Reading in an incredible Capital One Cup tie at the Madjeski Stadium which finished 7-5 to Arsenal after Reading had led 4-0. One of Walcotts goals was actually disputed and may be credited to Carl Jenkinson - meaning Walcott would have to return the ball, but he will argue that he needs a hat for his previously hat-tricks for England (v Croatia in 2008) and Arsenal (v Blackpool in 2010)
An Arsenal insider said "I can't see the club breaking their wage structure and offering Theo a fedora. They may offer him a baseball cap, or a beany, but to be honest a sack, holdall or a plastic container would be more suitable to hold his (match) balls."
Theo's agent told friends "He wants to stay with Arsenal and reach the top (hat) but he is prepared to move on for the right hat."
