Arsenal Transfer News: Robin van Persie Says He Won't Sign New Deal With Gunners

Arsenal striker Robin van Persie has announced that he will not extend his contract with the club, which is set to run out after next season, according to The Guardian.

UPDATE: July 4 at 2:40 p.m. ET  

The Arsenal Football Club released the following on the club's official website Wednesday following star striker Robin van Persie's decision not to sign an extension with the squad:

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We have to respect Robin's decision not to renew his contract. Robin has one year to run on his current contract and we are confident that he will fulfil his commitments to the Club. We are planning with ambition and confidence for next season with Arsenal's best interests in mind."

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---END UPDATE---

In a lengthy statement, Van Persie acknowledged the potential backlash from his decision to move on:

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I've thought long and hard about it, but I have decided not to extend my contract. You guys, the fans, have of course the right to disagree with my view and decision and I will always respect your opinions.

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The news will surely come as a tiny surprise to Arsenal supporters and more than likely alter the perception of the Dutch striker.

What It Means

Van Persie's decision not to sign a contract extension with Arsenal means that the Gunners lose their their best forward, a 28-year-old who scored 37 times for Arsenal in all competitions. In addition, Arsenal lose the club's eighth-leading all-time goal scorer (132).

Van Persie's legacy with the club dates all the way back to 2004, when he first came on board with the Gunners. Van Persie was also the club captain last season, so the club will need to find someone else to fill the leadership void. 

What Happens Next

Arsenal will likely have to look to and call upon English forwards Theo Walcott and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in the future once Van Persie's time with the club expires. Walcott scored nine goals last season, second-most on the squad, while 18-year-old Oxlade-Chamberlain notched four goals and two assists in all competitions for the Gunners.

Arsenal's recent signing of Lukas Podolski gives them an additional threat in the final third, where their production will certainly take a hit with the impending loss of the Premier League's most dangerous finisher and top scorer from a season ago.

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