Arsène Wenger has entered the race to sign teenage sensation Theo Walcott — but the Arsenal boss is far from crossing the finishing line.

"He's a player we rate," said the manager. "We are looking at him, yes. But I don't need to look too much at him because, personally, I like him.

"It is not at the [financial] numbers suggested [in the media] because we are not in advanced negotiations at all. We are not the only club who are after Theo Walcott but you ask me if I like him, I will say yes.

"It's like when you start a race with 10 other players and you ask me are you hopeful that you will win the race? I will say yes but there are nine others who think the same."

At 16, Walcott is considered to be one of the brightest young talents in the English game. He has not played in the Premiership but was involved in two FA Youth Cup ties with Arsenal in recent years. He was on the bench as a 14-year-old when the two teams met in January 2004 and scored the only goal down on the South Coast in February last season.

"I like the timing of his runs and his determined attitude," said Wenger. "I also like the fact that he can play in different positions up front and that he is calm in front of goal. The composure he shows in decisive moments doesn't change, whether it's in Division One or Premiership - you have that or you don't have that. He has determination as well and electric pace."

Media reports this morning suggested the winger wanted to come to Highbury and that Thierry Henry is hero.

"I'm pleased to hear that," said Wenger. "Thierry is not a bad role model for him. There are similarities. Thierry was a wide player and Theo can play either wide or central as well.

"But from me liking him, him liking the club and the deal being done, there is still a step to go."