Arsenal forward Theo Walcott to hold talks over new contract after FA Cup final
- Theo Walcott's preference is to extend his current deal with Arsenal
- The Gunners will look to Raheem Sterling if Walcott leaves the Emirates
- Walcott scored a hat-trick during Sunday's 4-1 win over West Brom
- READ: Arsenal honoured at inaugural Facebook Football Awards
- CLICK HERE for all the latest Arsenal news
Arsenal forward Theo Walcott will hold talks over a new contract next week.
And the discussions will prove pivotal in how strenuously the Gunners pursue Liverpool forward Raheem Sterling this summer.
Walcott is entering the final 12 months of his deal and discussions over an extension will start after the FA Cup final.
Arsenal forward Theo Walcott will hold talks over extending his deal with the club following the FA Cup final
The England star's preference is to stay at the Emirates Stadium but his current lack of game time is a concern for Walcott.
Walcott's current deal is worth £90,000 per week, but next week's talks will not centre around money, rather how the 26-year-old fits into Arsene Wenger's long-term plans.
Walcott has cut a frustrated figure in recent months, spending long spells on the bench.
But, with a Wembley date against Aston Villa just days away, he fired a timely reminder to Wenger last weekend, scoring an excellent hat-trick in the win over West Bromwich Albion.
Walcott wants assurances over his place in the team and scored a hat-trick against West Brom on Sunday
However, if assurances over his role in Wenger's blueprint are not forthcoming then Walcott may have a difficult decision to make.
If both parties agree it is time for Walcott to move on then Arsenal will look to press ahead with their interest in Sterling.
The Gunners have a firm interest in the Liverpool forward but have prioritised strengthening other areas of the pitch given their vast options in attack.
Arsenal will look to move for Liverpool's Raheem Sterling if Walcott leaves the Emirates
But Walcott's potential exit may prompt the Gunners into solidifying their interest in Sterling, who grew up in London.
Manchester City's finances mean they are firm favourites to land Sterling, who is refusing to sign a new deal, this summer.
Liverpool are interested in Walcott if they fail to resolve their contract stand-off with Sterling.
Most watched Sport videos
- Jake Paul presses Ryan Garcia on failed drug test during livestream
- Lando Norris shows off trophy on TikTok celebrating his first F1 win
- Dana White's bizarre rant against Netflix during Tom Brady roast
- Ed Sheeran celebrates Ipswich Town's promotion from Miami
- Arsenal pay tribute to Gunners fan Daniel Anjorin at the Emirates
- Tom Brady pokes fun at Bill Belichick for his doorbell footage
- The Rock begins MMA training camp ahead of filming 'Smashing Machine'
- Guardiola: 'Haaland was frustrated but I can guarantee he is happy'
- Chelsea boss pleased with strong win over West Ham
- Liverpool manager reflects on winning game against Tottenham
- 'I did not enjoy today': Moyes rues West Ham defeat to Chelsea
- 'Hugely disappointing outcome': Spurs manager reflects on loss