Arsene Wenger Talks New Arsenal Contract Amid Reports over Wojciech Szczesny

Arsene Wenger wants to delay talks over a new Arsenal contract until his table toppers have proven they are on the verge of something special, but he is keen to ensure Wojciech Szczesny commits his long-term future, according to John Cross of the Daily Mirror.

Wenger faces weekly questions about his Arsenal contract, which expires at the end of the season, per Neil Ashton and Sami Mokbel of the Daily Mail.

The Frenchman’s theory is simple. Football is the focus, and only success will earn him an extended stay:

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It’s not a question of my loyalty – I want to feel I can do well for this club. It’s as simple as that.

I can build another new team, but haven’t got 17 years, that is for sure. I can build another team because in 17 years I had a few teams, but at the minute I’m looking at the short term.

I will make a decision about the longer term later.

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Wenger is not dissimilar from Bayern Munich coach Pep Guardiola in his approach to contract negotiations. Both like to operate on short-term deals that are regularly renewed, with the idea being that clubs can easily dispose of their services if they are not the right men for the job.

A methodical thinker, Wenger will not need reminding that he was under serious pressure on the opening day of the campaign, after a shocking 3-1 home defeat to Aston Villa.

Since then Arsenal have won four Champions League games and are top of the Premier League table, but that will not trick Wenger into thinking he has cracked the formula that ends Arsenal’s eight-year trophy drought.

While their start has been impressive, the Gunners have only beaten Tottenham out of the sides expected to challenge them for a top-four spot this season. Back-to-back games with Liverpool and Manchester United are on the horizon.

Nevertheless, the Mail article reports that a fresh contract offer is on the table from Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke—and given the exciting brand of football being played at the Emirates, it is hard to believe Wenger would walk away.

Clues also rest in his dealings with other players, not least goalkeeper Szczesny, whom Wenger wants to tie to a new deal, according to Cross’ Mirror article:

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Szczesny and his advisers have already held a first round of talks about extending his current deal with the Gunners, which expires in 2015.

It is seen as recognition that the 23-year-old Poland international has come back strongly after being dropped last season and has now re-established himself as No. 1 with a string of excellent performances.

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Szczesny played only once between Mar. 3 and Apr. 16 last season, losing his place in the side due to an inconsistent spell of form.

Despite links to Real Madrid keeper Iker Casillas—per Simon Rice of the Independent—Szczesny now appears the trusted first-choice custodian at Arsenal, where he has conceded seven goals in eight league games this season, according to Soccerbase.

Loved by the fans due to his regular taunting of Tottenham, it would represent good business to tie down the 23-year-old, who shows exceptional talent for his age.

At a time when a club like Barcelona is known to be looking for a replacement for the outgoing Victor Valdes, per ESPNFC, Arsenal need to retain Szczesny before his head is potentially turned.

Wenger’s own commitment would surely sweeten negotiations.