Theo Walcott, Mikel Arteta and Tomas Rosicky expected to extend stays at Arsenal, reveals Arsene Wenger

The Arsenal manager says he is 'confident' talks with Walcott will be productive

Arsene Wenger has said he is "confident" of resolving Theo Walcott's future as the player gets ready to begin talks with Arsenal over a new contract.

The 26-year-old is out of contract at the end of the 2015-16 season, and speculation has already begun over his future with talks over a new deal still to be finalised.

According to reports, talks will begin after this weekend's FA Cup semi-final with Reading.

Whilst Wenger recently said the England international can be "difficult" to negotiate with, he hopes that he will remain at the Emirates amid speculation linking the former Southampton player with Liverpool.

"Yes I am confident because I believe that Theo has a great future," said the Arsenal boss.

"He is just coming back from a very, very difficult injury. Every week he is getting better."

Theo Walcott (GETTY IMAGES)

Wenger continued: "Theo is very young and I believe he will have a great goalscoring record in the future because of the quality and intelligence of his game, and therefore I would like him to stay with our club."

Wenger also confirmed he expected veterans Arteta and Tomas Rosicky to agree contract extensions before the end of the season.

Mikel Arteta is currently out injured (GETTY IMAGES)

Tomas Rosicky still has a role to play (GETTY IMAGES)

Arsenal needed penalties to get past Wigan in last season's semi-final, before going on to beat Hull on their return to Wembley after being 2-0 down early in the final.

"We know that it (semi-final) is always tricky. We have learnt from Wigan last year," he said.

"The urgency level will be quite high in our team."

Wenger added: "Reading have many players who have the experience in the Premier League.

"They have a very efficient style, who go a lot for crosses, so for us they can be a danger going forward."

Additional reporting by PA