Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger confirmed the deal for Theo Walcott is nearing completion with the 23-year-old set to sign on a lucrative five-year deal.
Walcott's future has been in limbo over the past few months, with the forward's contract set to expire at the end of the season. However, both player and club have repeatedly expressed their desire to come to a happy conclusion and now it seems like it is nearly there with Wenger revealing talks were moving along the right road.
"We're on a good road with Theo's negotiations," Wenger told reporters. "I'm more optimistic this week than last week. The discussions have progressed smoothly but slowly.
"As long as nothing is signed, you are cautious. I'm optimistic we'll get to a happy conclusion."
There were suggestions earlier this season that Walcott had demanded he play up front if the club wanted him to sign a new contract. However, Wenger rubbished those reports.
"I believe Theo can have a preference maybe to play through the middle, but firstly he never made a condition of that to extend his contract, because I would not accept it," Wenger added. "Secondly he's happier when he plays -- on the flank or through the middle.
"Theo is 23-years-old. For a striker, he's coming into the best age now.
"If you compare Theo from today with three years ago, he is a different animal. Today he finishes in a calm way and very accurately.
"He played against Newcastle, scored three goals, and was committed.
"I could never see a difference in training or in games."
Meanwhile, Wenger has admitted Robin Van Persie has been the difference in the title race so far this season, with the former Arsenal skipper propelling Manchester United to the top of the table almost single-handedly.
"It is painful to see Manchester United so far in front of us," said Wenger, who sold Van Persie to United in the summer.
"You know when you sell Robin van Persie to United that will be the case. He is one of the best strikers in the world and you know he will score goals. He got 30 for us in the league last year."
