ARSENE WENGER is ready to underline his faith in Theo Walcott by offering him a new deal before the start of next season.
Walcott, 19, is under contract at Arsenal until 2010 but I understand Wenger wants to tear up that agreement and replace it with a FIVE-YEAR deal that will double the striker's money.
Walcott is desperate to establish himself as a regular starter at the Emirates and is concerned that he is seen only as an ‘impact player'.
Boss Wenger does not want him to become disillusioned and will recommend the Gunners board up Walcott's wages to £2m a year.
Walcott — who, after his astonishing sub's appearance in the Champions League defeat at Anfield last week, looks sure to start at Manchester United this afternoon — will be happy to discuss terms if Wenger convinces him he is seen as one of the key players.
Walcott said: "I could not be happier here. And if I can get a run of games at the start of next season, I would love to renegotiate my contract."