Man City target Arsenal's Van Persie

Arsenal skipper Robin van Persie has emerged as Manchester City's top target.

The cash-rich Premier League leaders believe the Gunners are vulnerable to a big-money approach for their in-form Dutchman following a break down in talks over a new contract, the 'Mirror' reported.

Van Persie, 28, has just 18 months left on his current deal and is becoming increasingly concerned that Gunneers boss Arsene Wenger could be leaving the Emirates at the end of the season.

City want Van Persie to replace Carlos Tevez and are prepared to offer him a £200,000-a-week deal despite losing £195 million last year and being faced with the prospect of meeting new Financial Fair Play Regulations, the report added.

Van Persie has only the 2005 FA Cup winneer's medal to show for almost eight years in north London.

Roberto Mancini has been linked with Napoli striker Edinson Cavani but Van Persie is top of his wish-list after 35 goals in 36 appearance so far for Arsenal this season.

A move for the Dutch international in January is unlikely to succeed.

But City are willing to wait until the summer when Van Persie’s £30 million valuation will drop dramatically.

City have already raided the Gunners for defenders Kolo Toure, Gael Clichy and midfielder Samir Nasri.

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