The Theo Walcott contract issue has been a source of distraction for Arsene Wenger in an otherwise solid start to the new season for Arsenal; but if the words of the forward are anything to go by, there need not be too many worry lines related to the issue, creasing across the manager's forehead.
Walcott has less than a year remaining on his current deal, with the 23-year-old's representatives failing to come to an agreement with the club as yet, leading to suggestions of a possible departure in the January transfer window, or even a free transfer next summer.
However, Walcott, who has been used rather sparingly this season, insists he wants to stay at the Emirates and emulate a certain Arsenal legend by the name of Thierry Henry, the club's all-time leading goalscorer.
"I want to be an Arsenal legend," the England international told ESPN. "Thierry joined the club when he was 22 and I want to become an Arsenal legend like him, playing up front as well, which is a big factor for me.
"I've played on the right wing and had the opportunity to play up front a bit more so I think it's about time."
Wenger has talked about Walcott playing in a more central role in the past, but has not quite followed through with that on a consistent basis. Reports suggested Walcott was holding out for more money with the forward already rejecting an offer of £75,000 a week ($121,000).
Asked if the stories of him wanting around £100,000 a week ($162,300) were true, Walcott said it was never about the money for him. "I'm not the sort of person who's influenced by money," he said. "I always make my decisions based on football and only football.
"Hopefully, something can be sorted out. I'll just wait for the club to get back to us now and go from there.
"It's a slow process. My last contract took over six months to happen. Hopefully, it can be sorted out.
"I've never said I wanted to go, I've always wanted to stay."
Arsene Wenger said last week, he might be forced to sell his player if a deal could not be agreed by January, and Walcott admitted it could not be completely ruled out, even if both parties want to settle on a contract. "It's one of those things that happen in the game," he added.
"If it comes to it, if the club had to sell me, I'd be disappointed but, like I said, hopefully something can be sorted."
Wenger might be tempted to use Walcott as a central striker when the Gunners play Coventry City in the League Cup Wednesday.
