Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has admitted that Theo Walcott is set for a new contract with the club as he is preparing himself for a lengthy round of negotiations with the winger’s advisers. Walcott’s earlier extension in 2013 involved a series of prolonged negotiations which also included Wenger’s weekly press briefings. Walcott was close to leaving the club days before he penned a new deal.

Walcott’s current contract is set to end in 2016 and Wenger has admitted that initial talks have taken place over a new deal for the 25-year-old.

Wenger said, “The first contacts have been established. We will see how they [negotiations] progresses politically. Walcott was difficult to convince [during his last contract discussion] and that is why it took so much time. We have a started very early with him, but it was slow progress. He is very quick on the pitch, but off the pitch not always.”

Walcott has has just overcome a serious knee injury and he has struggled to get back into the Arsenal team since returning to full fitness. Wenger also said that the player’s lack of game time ould play a part in his next career move.

Wenger continued, “That could play a part yes, but I want him to stay and be a regular player and fight for his place. No matter where you go if it is a big club you have to compete for your place.”

Elsewhere, Daily Mail also report that Hector Bellerin is set to extend his Arsenal contract after impressive displays this season.

The 19 year old has become a key member of the Arsenal squad having played 17 times so far covering for Mathieu Debuchy. Bellerin’s contract expires in 2017, but Wenger is keen to extend it