Arsenal Transfer Rumors: Arsene Wenger Smart to Demand More for Robin van Persie

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is smart to demand more money from an English football club in exchange for Dutch striker Robin van Persie this summer.

According to The Mirror's John Cross, "the Gunners are adamant that van Persie will not be allowed to move to an English club for less than £25 million."

Cross explains where Arsenal stands on the subject of Van Persie:

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They have made it clear that the price would be higher for United or Manchester City than for the other suitors, Italian champions Juventus, but so far no club has come close to meeting Arsenal’s demands.

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Although there is the very real risk that Arsenal could lose Van Persie for nothing at the end of next season if they continue their stubborn negotiations, they are smart to set the price tag high.

After all, Van Persie upped his worth last season with a remarkable 30 goals in Premier League play, more than any other player in the EPL. At age 29, he is still a coveted forward and one capable of keeping up his world-class play for a few more seasons.

Manchester United are in the lead to acquire Van Persie, according to Cross, but have not committed to shipping off the amount of money Arsenal wants in return. 

If the move was made, United would boast the EPL's two top scorers from a season ago. Van Persie and United superstar Wayne Rooney combined for 57 goals in 2011-12 Premier League play.

The idea of Rooney and Van Persie playing together on the same pitch has to excite Sir Alex Ferguson, and will ultimately be the reason why United agree to Wenger's mighty price.

Arsenal are not foolish, they understand what they have in Van Persie. He is an elite striking talent in his prime and has loads of experience playing superb football in the EPL.

If Arsenal are going to face a future without Van Persie, they might as well get richer. 

After all, Wenger and the Gunners can always lower their asking price if the demand for Van Persie drops significantly. 

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