Date Published: 11/07/11

Real Madrid Hunts Van Persie with $50Million

Arsenal Star, Robin Van Persie

Real Madrid are readying a £25.8m( about $50 million), bid for Robin van Persie, according to the International Business Times, as the striker continues to stall on contract talks with Arsenal.

Van Persie has been a star this season, scoring eight goals in his last six appearances. The striker has been the subject of a great deal of transfer talk under normal circumstances, but his recent performances have made the rumours even louder.

Arsenal are desperate to keep hold of van Persie, and Arsene Wenger has said numerous times that he is hoping to sign the Dutchman for longer than his current contract.

But van Persie is reportedly waiting to see whether Arsenal are serious about challenging for trophies this season, and if they will make Champions League, before he makes his final decision.

Meanwhile, Dutch legend Marco van Basten has spoken about van Persie’s contractual situation at Arsenal, urging the striker to remain in England.

The former Netherland’s boss, who coached Van Persie during the 2006 World Cup and 2008 European Championships, told the Sunday Mirror: “Robin must not leave Arsenal. You can’t compare my situation at Ajax. The big difference is that Robin is already at a big club.

“Robin has been in London for six years [sic]. He can’t help it that Arsenal have won nothing in that time.

“So much has changed in those six years in the Premier League. Chelsea have become a big club and have massive financial resources.

“Manchester City have become a big force and are richer than any other club.

“Manchester United and Liverpool have American owners. The amount of money which is flowing to these clubs for transfers is unbelievable. Arsenal operate differently. I admire that.”

Van Persie has been in blistering form for Arsenal this season, scoring 11 times in 11 Premier League appearances. However, with his contract due to expire in 2013, and with negotiations put on ice for the time being, rumours are spreading that the Gunners captain could be heading for the exit.

The ex-Ajax and AC Milan striker offered praise for Arsenal, admitting that it is the right place for Van Persie: “And I still think Arsenal are the most beautiful club in England. At Man City and Chelsea, they will never have that class and style.

“Arsenal have the most amazing stadium, they have a style of play, they have a beautiful shirt – in every way I consider Arsenal as the ultimate football club.