• Premier League

RVP 'excited' by Real Madrid link

ESPNsoccernet staff
February 10, 2012
Robin van Persie's Arsenal contract runs out in 2013 © PA Photos
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Arsenal captain Robin van Persie has reportedly told Spanish newspaper MARCA that he would be "excited" by a move to Real Madrid.

Van Persie, 28, is out of contract in the summer of 2013 and, although Arsenal plan to hold discussions over an extension before the end of the season, talk has been gathering pace that Barcelona and Madrid plan to make a move.

"I am happy to hear of the interest of a club as important as Real Madrid," Van Persie is quoted as telling MARCA. "Of course I would be excited to play there." However, he added: "I do not think Arsenal will be willing to negotiate."

Former Madrid director Jorge Valdano does not believe the club need Van Persie and has suggested the Camp Nou would be a more appropriate destination. "Van Persie is needed more at Barcelona than at Real Madrid in my opinion," Valdano told El Larguero. "Madrid are already pretty close to having [the] perfect squad."

Van Persie is currently the Premier League's top goalscorer, having netted 22 goals in his 24 appearances so far this season.

Meanwhile, Arsene Wenger has played down suggestions Andrei Arshavin could join Anzhi Makhachkala or former club Zenit St Petersburg before the Russian transfer window closes this month. "I expect him to be here after February 24 and that is clear," Wenger said.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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