Arsenal have been handed a major boost ahead of the new season with recent comments from in-form striker Theo Walcott of his plans to remain at the club.

Gunner’s blistering forward Walcott, who has just a year left on his contract at Arsenal, has been subject of a transfer away from the club after talks of an extension have dragged over the last few months.

But the 26-year-old England international forward has moved to calm the fears of Arsenal fans by revealing a deal to extend his stay at the club is in place, and “it won’t be long” before the deal is done and dusted.

“My agent has talked to the club, I enjoy playing for this club so I am just letting them crack on with things,” he said.

“I’m sure it won’t be long. This squad, for me, is one of the best I’ve been involved in. I want to be part of that.”

“There is something special in this group. I think successful teams stay together for a long time.”

“We have got to keep this group together.”

Walcott, who ended last season in a grand style, has continued his heroics this term after scoring the Gunner’s opening goal in the final clash against Everton last weekend.