Wenger Gives Latest On Theo Walcott Contract Talks

Arsene Wenger has been in front of the media on Friday morning ahead of this weekends clash with champions Manchester City and gave the latest on Theo Walcott’s contract situation.

The boss was predictably quizzed on how contract talks with Walcott were progressing and Wenger revealed he is ‘optimistic’ the attacker will commit his future to the club before the end of the month.

Reports during the week had suggested the 23-year-old was set to end speculation over his future with the Daily Mail claiming a new four-and-a-half-year contract had been agreed.

Speaking to Arsenal.com this morning, Wenger refused to confirm those reports but admitted he’s more optimistic that Theo will sign than he was last week but remains cautious until the deal is finalised:

“Discussions progress smoothly but slowly,” he said.

“We are on a good road but in this situation, as long as nothing is signed, you are cautious.

“But I am optimistic we will get to a happy conclusion. I was optimistic last week, but I am a bit more optimistic this week.” Arsene Wenger told Arsenal.com

However, Arsene dismissed reports claiming Walcott’s decision was linked to him being given assurances he’ll be played up front, telling the clubs official website:

“No, it is not linked with that, I believe that Theo can have a preference maybe to play through the middle but first of all he never made a condition of that to extend his contract, because certainly I would not accept it.

“Secondly he was always happier when he plays, whether it is on the flank or through the middle. That has no influence at all.

“No [I didn’t make assurances], and he didn’t make a condition of it as well. But I see him playing more up front, yes.”

Read more Arsenal transfer news

So it looks like we’re slowly heading towards a positive resolution with Walcott. I’ve always been confident he’ll stay and commit his future to the club. He seems settled at the club and I got the feeling watching him in recent interviews that he knew a deal was close.

Fingers crossed Wenger and Gazidis can get the contract signed soon and they can get on with bringing a few new faces to the club before the window shuts!