Wenger defends Walcott attitude

30 August 2012 13:51
Arsene Wenger is confident Theo Walcott 'loves the club' and is 'not obsessed by money' as negotiations continue over the winger's future.

Earlier this week, it was reported the forward had rejected a contract extension at the Emirates Stadium after entering the final year of his existing deal. The development sparked speculation Walcott, who is rumoured to want £75,000-a-week in wages, could be sold to Liverpool or Manchester City before Friday's transfer deadline. But a short-term agreement is understood to be in place which will ensure the former Southampton player will not leave in the current window and Wenger remains relaxed.

"Theo has one year to go. We want to extend his contract. I think Theo loves the club," the Gunners' boss said at a press conference ahead of Sunday's trip to Liverpool. "He is not obsessed by money, there is just a little difference [in the negotiations]." Arsenal have already sold Robin van Persie and Alex Song to Manchester United and Barcelona respectively, and the possible departure of Walcott would again raise questions.

Wenger, though, has brought in Lukas Podolski, Olivier Giroud and Santi Cazorla and he has always maintained his faith in his new-look squad.

Source: team_talk