Dutch legend Marco van Basten has said that Robin van Persie must not leave Arsenal.

The former Netherlands coach, who has a good relationship with the Arsenal forward, has dismissed the idea that Van Persie must leave North London to win trophies and insists that the situation is different to his at Ajax in the '80s.

"Robin must not leave Arsenal," he told The Mirror. "You can't compare my situation at Ajax. The big difference is that Robin is already at a big club.

"He has been in London for six years. So much has changed. Chelsea have become a big club and have massive financial resources. Manchester City have become a big force and are richer than any other club.

"The amount of money which is flowing to these clubs for transfers is unbelievable. Arsenal operate differently. I admire that. I still think Arsenal are the most beautiful club in England. It is the club where Robin belongs."

Van Basten coached the Gunners captain from 2004 to 2008 as the manager of the Dutch national team.