Robin Van Persie Transfer: "I Will Not Sign New Deal"

Robin Van Persie has dropped a major cannon on Arsenal Football Club with a statement to the media, putting an end to his transfer saga.

The 29-year-old has told the footballing world that he will not be committing his future to the club after a recent meeting.

Arsenal's talisman, who scored more than 30 goals last season, said: 

"This is an update for the fans about my current situation. I have kept quiet all this time out of respect and loyalty for the club and as agreed with Mr Gazidis and Mr Wenger, but since there is so much speculation in the media, I think it is fair for you guys to know what’s really going on at the moment.

"As announced earlier this year I had a meeting with the boss and Mr Gazidis after the season. This was a meeting about the club’s future strategy and their policy. Financial terms or a contract have not been discussed, since that is not my priority at all.

"I personally have had a great season but my goal has been to win trophies with the team and to bring the club back to its glory days."

He continued: "Out of my huge respect for Mr Wenger, the players and the fans I don’t want to go into any details, but unfortunately in this meeting it has again become clear to me that we in many aspects disagree on the way Arsenal FC should move forward.

"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.

"I love the club and the fans, no matter what happens. I have grown up and became a man during my time with Arsenal FC," he added.

"Everybody at the club and the fans have always supported me over the years and I have always given my all (and more) on and off the pitch. I am very proud of being part of this fantastic club for the last eight years.

"As soon as Mr Gazidis is back from his 2-week holiday in America further meetings will follow and I will update you if and when there are more developments."

This will come as a major blow to Arsene Wenger, who recently stated that the club had to keep RVP at all cost.

The fans may mourn or take this news on the chin and move on, but Arsenal as a club were always wary of the situation and brought in two forwards as soon as the window opened.

The worrying aspect of these comments by the Dutchman is the disagreement about how the club should move forward.

Was RVP indicating that the club should allow a takeover? Or did the club refuse to prioritise more signings to be brought in?

None of us will really know. But the Gunners have been in this situation before and have the mentality to bounce back. It is still to be seen whether the club will keep him for one more year or sell him.

In my opinion, Theo Walcott will follow Van Persie out of the door. Wenger needs to use this summer to bring in top-class replacement in terms of attacking midfielders.

In terms of the normal summer signings, the club still needs a strong defensive midfielder, a centre back and a goalkeeper.

I am glad that this has come out clear in the open now so that Arsenal FC have a lot of time to make crucial decisions and booster the squad.