Wenger defends contract rebel Walcott as Chelsea, Man Utd & Liverpool hover

Thursday, January 3, 2013
1:48 PM

Transfer news: Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger does not feel Theo Walcott’s future will come down to a simple matter of money.

The 23-year-old will be out of contract in the summer, and has been in excellent goalscoring form for the Gunners after switching to his preferred central striker role and grabbing a hat-trick against Newcastle.

Walcott turned down one offer of a new deal - reported to be worth £75,000 a week - in the summer and has so far failed to reach an agreement as the player looks for terms closer to £100,000.

However, Wenger feels the continuing negotiations can see a positive conclusion to the saga.

Speaking at a press conference this morning ahead of Sunday’s FA Cup third-round tie at Swansea, Wenger said: “We are talking. Yes [I am encouraged by the talks].”

Wenger added: “I only speak for our side, and my side is that we want him to stay here.

“Of course I don’t want to speak much more about that situation because it can be misinterpreted and I don’t think he is only interested by money. I don’t believe that.”