Theo Walcott close to new Arsenal deal

Arsenal are increasingly confident of persuading Theo Walcott to sign a new five-year deal. Talks with Walcott’s representatives over a new contract are ongoing, and the club hope to finalise a deal within a fortnight. There is now a growing sense at the Emirates that they are winning the battle to secure his future. A number of the forward’s team-mates are convinced he will stay, as are members of the club hierarchy. Walcott has indicated that he wants to stay but feels Arsenal are short-changing him with their current £75,000-per-week offer. They are expected to improve that this month but the increase will decide whether Walcott signs an extension. A deal between £85,000 and £90,000 would satisfy both parties. Meanwhile, defender Kieran Gibbs has called for more consistency after the 1-1 draw with Southampton on Tuesday. ‘It’s important that we stake our claim in the next three games and show where we want to be,’ he said.

Source: DSG