Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has hinted that the potential arrival of Lukas Podolski does not mean the end for prolific striker Robin van Persie.

The Gunners have maintained that they are desperate to keep hold of the Dutchman, who has less than 18 months left on his contract.

Wenger has denied that a deal for Germany frontman Podolski is imminent, and Frenchman has further dismissed suggestions that the 26-year-old would replace Van Persie.

"Our plan is to keep Robin van Persie even if we buy any player," said Wenger.

Meanwhile, Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has clarified his stance on Van Persie, claiming that he "never" said that the North West club were interested in buying the forward.