• Premier League

Wenger warns Utd and City off Van Persie

ESPN staff
July 25, 2012
Robi nvan Persie is back in training with Arsenal, but doubts remain © Getty Images
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Arsene Wenger has dropped a broad hint that Arsenal will not sell Robin van Persie to a Premier League rival.

The Gunners have been rocked by Van Persie's statement that he will not sign a new deal at the club. The interested parties are already jockeying for position, with Manchester United, Manchester City and Serie A champions Juventus in the frame.

United have had a bid rejected and Arsenal have spoken of their desire to resolve the situation in the near future.

Wenger has made it clear he wants to retain Van Persie's services, but that would be at the risk of seeing him wind down his contract and leave on a free transfer next summer.

There has been no progress on the subject since Wenger jetted off to China for the club's pre-season tour, although he appeared to warn City and United off his captain.

"There is nothing to elaborate," Wenger told the club's official website. "The options are clear - we want to keep our players.

"I would be happy for him to stay in the English Premier League - at Arsenal."

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