Transfer Centre

Arsene Wenger expects Robin van Persie to sign fresh deal

By Danielle Joynson, Staff Reporter | 04 May 2012

Arsene Wenger says that he cannot "guarantee" that Robin van Persie will agree a new deal at Arsenal but the Frenchman believes that the Dutchman is "committed" to the club.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is confident that Robin van Persie will dispel transfer rumours and commit the rest of his career with the Gunners.

The Dutchman's future has been lingering in limbo in recent months with the 28-year-old due to enter the final year of his current contract at the Emirates.

The prolific forward, who has scored 35 goals this season, recently claimed that he will sit down with the Frenchman and the Arsenal board to discuss his future.

"My desire is to find an agreement with Robin van Persie, extend the contract and stay with us for a longer time. Hopefully, we can reach that," said Wenger.

"If that doesn't happen, we'll still want him to stay but I am more focused on the first situation. I think what is important for us is that we find an agreement with him to be happy and to stay and finish his career here.

"Who would want to lose his best player? If I was in his situation I would be relaxed as well. I'm relaxed. I cannot guarantee it will go well but I'm quite confident. I believe he is committed to the club, I feel the club have shown great commitment to him over the years and put great faith in him."

Manchester City, Barcelona and Real Madrid are among a number of clubs believed to be interested in the striker.