Wenger remains 'optimistic' on Walcott

Soccer:Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger remains hopeful Theo Walcott will commit his long-term future to the club but stressed he is not taking the England man's signature for granted. The 23-year-old's situation has been the subject of continued speculation, with negotiations between the club and player ongoing.

It is understood Arsenal are ready to make the forward one of the highest-paid players at the club with a five-year contract worth around €100,000 per week, which would be boosted by lucrative add-ons.

Wenger said: "We are on a good road. In this situation as long as nothing is signed, you are cautious. However, I am optimistic we will get to a happy conclusion."

Arsenal are keen for Walcott to sign before the end of the month, and Wenger said: "Discussions are progressing slowly, but smoothly."

When asked about possible other deals during the transfer window, Wenger said: "We still work on the transfer market, but do not want to bring in average (players)."

Arsenal have been linked with a string of players including Barcelona forward David Villa, and have seen their attacking options hit by the African Nations Cup, as forward Gervinho is away with the Ivory Coast.