Dutch ace wants Arsenal to match own ambitions

Robin van Persie has challenged Arsenal to prove the club’s ambitions match his own as he mulls over whether to sign a new contract.

Van Persie, a reported target for Barcelona, is under contract with the Gunners until the end of next season but negotiations are well advanced on a new three-year deal that the player himself describes as “very positive.”

Speaking to Champions magazine, van Persie added: “Financially Arsenal’s last offer is fine, but that isn’t everything for me. It’s about my ambitions and how they can be fulfilled.

“The club and I want the same, and it’s our intention to achieve that. We have all the other factors in place – fantastic stadium, dedicated support and money in the bank.

“Now it’s about making that final push. In the last four years, I’ve only won one prize, the FA Cup – and that is too little. I want to push through to achieve more.

“That is something I feel in my mind and my body. It’s difficult to explain, but I certainly feel I can play an important role in taking Arsenal to a higher level.”

Van Persie returned to Arsenal this week after being ruled out of Holland’s World Cup qualifier against Macedonia on Wednesday because of a groin strain he suffered in the 3-0 win over Scotland on Saturday.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger will be desperately hoping the 25-year-old, whose form has helped Arsenal return to the top four of the Premier League, will have recovered in time for Saturday’s trip to Newcastle.