Thierry Henry to sign new Arsenal contract

SYDNEY, May 19: Arsenal striker Thierry Henry is poised to sign a new contract with the Premier League club, British media reported today.

The French international had been strongly linked with a move to Barcelona, who beat Arsenal 2-1 in the Champions League final on Wednesday. However, he now appears set to stay in London.

''I hope to stay as long as I can keep running,'' Henry told The Sun newspaper. ''I couldn't leave the fans, they're like family.

''I love Barcelona but on Wednesday Arsenal showed they had heart. I hope to finalise details today.'' The 28-year-old joined Arsenal from Juventus in 1999 and scored his 200th goal for the London club last season, making him their leading scorer.

He was named English Football Writers' player of the year last month, the third time he has won the award.

If Henry does re-sign it will be a huge boost to the club ahead of their move to a new stadium next season.

REUTERS