Sir Alex Ferguson 'hopeful' of Robin van Persie signing

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed that he is 'hopeful' of signing Arsenal striker Robin van Persie.

The Dutchman has been linked with a number of clubs across Europe after he recently announced that he would not be committing his future to the Gunners.

With Manchester City and Juventus also thought to be interested in the 29-year-old, Ferguson believes that some perseverance will see the Red Devils land the forward.

"We've made a bid, they've been trying to negotiate with other clubs," the Scot told MUTV. "We have to persevere. Hopefully it comes our way.

"I don't have a gut feeling about it. We can't get a break through with Arsenal. It's hard to know their thoughts."

Ferguson was speaking after his side's friendly defeat to Barcelona in Gothenburg on Wednesday.