Walcott set for contract talks

Theo Walcott will hold contract talks with Arsenal next week - and they could open the door for Raheem Sterling.

Walcott, 26, who has one year left on his current £90,000-a-week deal, will sit down with Arsenal after the FA Cup final and his first priority is to stay at the Emirates.

But Walcott’s biggest concern is playing time rather than financial and that will be the key as to whether they can agree a new deal.

Liverpool are keen on the England winger as they face a major dilemma over contract rebel Sterling, 20, who is also on Arsenal’s hit list this summer.

Manchester City are prepared to launch a huge bid to sign Sterling but Arsenal and Chelsea believe the appeal of London - where he grew up as a young player at QPR - could give them an advantage.