Wenger close to new deal

Arsene Wenger is expected to tie up a new contract with Arsenal within the next week. Wenger's current contract expires at the end of the season and finishing touches are being put on a new three year deal.

Wenger's future has been the subject of intense speculation with several Spanish sides all desperate to sign a manager of Arsene's quality, and prior to Bernd Schuster's appointment at Real Madrid, Wenger was heavily linked with the job.

David Dein's departure was known to worry Wenger, who continues to adopt a double role at Arsenal since; as coach and as temporary Director of Football.