Arsenal Manager Arsene Wenger

Arsene Wenger is confident star defender William Gallas will agree a new Arsenal contract, saying: "It's our desire is to keep him here."

Gallas is out of contract at the end of the season, and as such is free to talk to any clubs, with Roma reported to be tracking the former Chelsea defender who turns 33 in August.

Wenger, though, is confident the Frenchman will extend his stay at Emirates Stadium.

"I am not concerned. He is under contract until the 30th of June. We have not found an agreement yet. I meet his agents again next Thursday and we will try to find a solution," said the Arsenal manager, who refused to be drawn on whether the length of deal was the sticking point.

"I would like to keep all that secret. I feel I have to respect both parties and not to come out about the details of negotiations."

Wenger added: "I do not know if he has spoken to Roma, but he is out of contract and can talk to whom he wants.

"William is speaking to us and our desire is to keep him here.

"I think he wants to stay here."