The Mirror reports that Arsenal defender William Gallas is willing to extend his stay at north London following showdown talks between the club and his agent.

The Frenchman's current contract expires in the summer, and earlier reports indicated that the 32-year-old was keen on securing a two-year deal, while manager Arsene Wenger was holding firm on the club's policy of handing out one-year extensions to players over the age of 30.

This had prompted the former Olympique de Marseille player to be linked with several clubs around Europe, including Roma and Paris Saint-Germain.

However, it is claimed that the Gunners are on the verge of reaching middle ground with the defender, by offering the centre-half a one-year extension with the option of a further year if he should make a predetermined number of appearances.

Arsenal outfit are believed to be keen on sorting out the issue soon so that Gallas remains focussed for the remainder of the season, as the club are still in the Premier League title race and are preparing for a blockbuster encounter with Barcelona in the Champions League.

http://www.goal.com/en-us/news/85/england/2010/03/24/1847076/report-william-gallas-ready-to-sign-contract-extension-with