Theo Walcott signs new £100,000-a-week contract with Arsenal

Arsenal winger's contract saga finally comes to an end

Theo Walcott's long-running contract negotiations with Arsenal have finally drawn to a close, after club and player agreed on a deal worth £100,000-a-week to the 23-year-old.

The forward has agreed a three-and-a-half year contract with the Gunners.

Walcott told Arsenal's official website: "I am very happy to have signed a new contract here at Arsenal. Thanks to everyone for their continued support, especially the manager, everyone at the club and most importantly the fans.

"I have made it clear from the start that I wanted to stay at Arsenal, so I am pleased we have agreed a deal that everyone is happy with.

"What is important now is for the team to realise its potential and win trophies."

Yesterday manager Arsene Wenger said he was "99 per cent" optimistic that a deal would be done by the weekend, and it is believed that the club's lawyers and Walcott's representatives were agreed on most issues - including the length of the deal and the player's image rights - by 7pm yesterday evening.

Today's news draws a line under speculation around the England international's future, which began when he rejected a five-year contract worth £75,000-per-week in August.

It's understood Arsenal had tabled a £90,000-a-week offer, including a £3m signing on bonus, to sign a five year deal, however Walcott has opted for a shorter contract.

After a frustrating start to 2012/13 campaign, the Southampton academy graduate currently has 14 goals in 24 games, making him Arsenal's top goalscorer this season. 

The news will be a relief to Arsenal who will now be able to turn their attention to bringing in new signings.