Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has once again reiterated that he has no intention of selling Theo Walcott during the January transfer window.

The England international's current contract is due to expire next summer and as a result he is permitted to discuss terms with other clubs next year.

However, despite the threat of losing the winger on a free transfer, Wenger has insisted that Walcott remains an important part of his squad.

"A successful season is more important for us than this risk that is only a financial risk, apart from the losing the player," Wenger told reporters.

"If we sell him, we lose him anyway. I believe that we started the season with this squad and we want to finish the season with this squad. What is important is what we achieve together for the season. To do that I just think that Theo is a big part in that."

Walcott, 23, joined the Gunners from Southampton in 2006.