Arsenal have expected Theo Walcott to sign a new contract all summer. A deal has been on the table for him since the clubs return from the pre-season tour of Asia, however, he still hasn't put pen to paper.
By all accounts, Theo Walcott is very happy at Arsenal and he wants to stay, the delay seems to be him wanting better terms. I'm told there has not been major interest in Theo all summer, and the club have been comfortable to let him take his time, however it has now dragged on with reports emerging he has refused a new deal.
Theo's representatives were at London Colney on Friday morning in contract talks with senior Arsenal officials. Both parties expected to come to a resolution and a deal was to be agreed/signed. However an agreement was not reached, and AFC were "disappointed" that Theo had not agreed. I'm told that this played a part in him being left on the bench for Sunday's match. When he came on he looked like a man who had things on his mind, ducking out of tackles and never extending himself. Looked ominous.
Today reports have emerged from the Times that Theo had refused a new deal at Arsenal. Whether that's them catching on to the news that no agreement was reached on Friday, or as a result of new talks, I can't confirm. However what we do know is it's getting seriously tight for a decision to be made. It's clear Arsenal won't let Theo run into his last year without signing, so a decision will be imminent; he will need to sign a new deal or be sold. He is happy at the club, and AW even said in his presser he wants to stay, so let's hope that happens.
P.S
For everyone worrying about transfers, I know it's not ideal but Arsenal signed 3 players on deadline day last year, so fear not.