Van Persie won´t extend Arsenal deal

Arsenal captain Robin Van Persie has confirmed he will not be signing a new contract at the English Premier League club.

Van Persie’s future has long been the subject of speculation, with the likes of Manchester City and Juventus rumoured to have made enquiries for the striker who has one year left to run on his current deal at the Emirates Stadium.

The 29-year-old has now informed fans through his website that he will not be extending his stay in north London, saying his meeting with manager Arsene Wenger earlier this year had left him questioning how the club was moving forward.

The Netherlands international’s statement read: “This is an update for the fans about my current situation.

“I have kept quiet all this time out of respect and loyalty for the club and as agreed with (chief executive) Mr (Ivan) Gazidis and Mr Wenger, but since there is so much speculation in the media, I think it is fair for you guys to know what’s really going on at the moment.

“As announced earlier this year I had a meeting with the boss and Mr. Gazidis after the season. This was a meeting about the club’s future strategy and their policy. Financial terms or a contract have not been discussed, since that is not my priority at all.

“I personally have had a great season but my goal has been to win trophies with the team and to bring the club back to its glory days.

“Out of my huge respect for Mr Wenger, the players and the fans I don’t want to go into any details, but unfortunately in this meeting it has again become clear to me that we in many aspects disagree on the way Arsenal FC should move forward.

“I’ve thought long and hard about it, but I have decided not to extend my contract. You guys, the fans, have of course the right to disagree with my view and decision and I will always respect your opinions.

“I love the club and the fans, no matter what happens. I have grown up and became a man during my time with Arsenal FC. Everybody at the club and the fans have always supported me over the years and I have always given my all (and more) on and off the pitch.

“I am very proud of being part of this fantastic club for the last eight years. As soon as Mr Gazidis is back from his two-week holiday in America further meetings will follow and I will update you if and when there are more developments.”

The news will come as a bitter blow to Wenger, who said on Tuesday that it was imperative to keep the PFA Player of the Year with Arsenal ‘at all costs’.

A string of clubs across Europe are likely to be interested in signing van Persie, who netted 37 goals in all competitions last season.