Theo Walcott/Raheem Sterling swap would be BEST deal ever - Paul Merson

LIVERPOOL would have pulled off the 'deal of the century' if Theo Walcott heads to Anfield and Raheem Sterling went the other way.

Raheem Sterling Player Profile

That is according to former Gunners star Paul Merson.

Sterling's future has been up in the air and he rejected the Reds' opening offer of £100,000 a week.

Walcott in the meantime has seen contractual negotiations with the Gunners reach an impasse.

Walcott, Arsenal, AFC, Gunners, Sterling, Liverpool, LFCGETTY

Theo Walcott (left) and Raheem Sterling (right) could both be on the move this summer

He's been badly advised. Actually, badly advised isn't even the word - it's worse than that

Paul Merson

Both players have been tipped to leave their respective clubs, and Merson thinks a swap deal would represent brilliant business for Liverpool.

"If Theo Walcott goes to Liverpool, Raheem Sterling goes to Arsenal and Liverpool get some money, I think Liverpool have had the best deal ever," Merson wrote in his Sky Sports column.

"If he goes to Arsenal, will he play? I don't think he's an Arsenal player.

"I don't think he gets his head up or moves the ball quick enough."

Theo Walcott Player Profile

Merson also can't understand why Sterling has turned down Liverpool's big offer.

He added: "It's unbelievable, Liverpool, one of the biggest clubs in the world are offering him £100,000-a-week and he's turning it down... not for me.

"I think he's going to struggle. The fans will be on his back very quickly. He should get his head down and take the money. He's been badly advised. Actually, badly advised isn't even the word - it's worse than that.

"He's 20 years old and has been offered £100,000-a-week. He's not looking for his last move - he's got another two moves left yet only if he fulfils his potential."

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