Former Arsenal midfielder Robert Pires has said that Arsene Wenger can keep striker Robin van Persie at Arsenal next season if he signs some star names in the summer.

Van Persie, who has scored 13 goals in 12 league appearances this season, added a brace against Borussia Dortmund in midweek to help his side progress to the next round of the Champions League.

The Dutchman has just 18 months remaining on his current contract, but Pires expects the 28-year-old to remain at the club, despite interest from Manchester City.

"I think he will stay," he said. "He has status at Arsenal and he is highly regarded. But I also believe that Arsenal need to sign some important players next summer. That will help to keep him.

"It was difficult at the start of the season, but since their 1-0 win in Marseille, results have improved. In people such as Yossi Benayoun, Mikel Arteta and Per Mertesacker, Arsenal have brought in experienced players.

"They have settled in and if this squad can win silverware this season, it can be the start of something."

The Gunners are currently in sixth place in the Premier League.