But Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood has indicated that manager Arsene Wenger is confident of retaining van Persie’s services, according to Sky Sports.
“We haven’t talked to Robin yet, but I spoke to Arsene recently,” Sky Sports reports Hill-Wood told the Daily Star. “He is very confident he will stay and I very much hope he will. He has had a wonderful season with us.
“We have had no official approaches from any other club, as far as I am aware.”
Van Persie’s contract expires at the end of the 2012-13 season. If he balks at signing a new contract with Arsenal (one that would give him a hefty raise), the club could sell him for over £35 million ($56.6 million) to any number of top clubs. AC Milan, Manchester City, Real Madrid and Barcelona are just a few of the clubs that are reportedly interested in signing the 28-year-old.
The Arsenal captain enjoyed one of the finest seasons in Premier League history. His 30 goals in 37 games saw him sweep both of England’s major “Player of the Season” awards, and keep the Gunners in place to reach next season’s UEFA Champions League.
If van Persie extends his stay in North London, it could mark a landmark summer for the club. Arsenal has already signed German international Lukas Podolski ahead of next season. His arrival could be followed by that of French midfielder Yann M’Villa.
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