Wenger says Van Persie will stay at Arsenal

Arsenal's Robin van Persie scored 37 goals in all competitions last season. (FILE)

Published Thursday, June 21, 2012

By Staff

Arsene Wenger insists his captain Robin van Persie will stay at Arsenal and not move to Juventus because Serie A is rubbish, according to reports.

The Dutch striker is out of contract next summer and has yet to sign a £130,000-a-week new deal on offer at the Emirates.

Van Persie put on hold talks with Arsenal before he left for what turned out to be a disappointing European Championship campaign as the Netherlands failed to progress past the group stages after three defeats.

The Arsenal hitman has been a target of champions Manchester City after plundering 37 goals in all competitions last season.

But Wenger has been quoted in Italian newspapers that his captain will not leave this summer.

He said: "I am certain that Robin will remain with us. He will stay at Arsenal.

"There is no reason why a top player, a big champion would want a move to Serie A in terms of the prestige of the League, the level of play or financial considerations. If he moves there I will buy you a Caramello.

"Your football (Serie A) is at an inferior level to the Premier League."

Arsenal are keen to show their intent for next season with more signings to follow German striker Lukas Podolski.

A £13 million move for France forward Olivier Giroud is, according to Montpellier's officials, at an advanced stage.

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