Arsenal remain adamant Robin van Persie will not leave the club this summer even if the Dutchman fails to agree a new contract.
Talks this week have led to a stand-off with Van Persie so far reluctant to agree to an improved £130,000-a-week deal which also included a £5million signing on fee.
The 28-year-old is understood to have told manager Arsene Wenger and chief executive Ivan Gazidis that he needs convincing of the Gunners’ capability in challenging for silverware next season.
But it is believed the club’s hierarchy will force Van Persie to see out the final year of his deal at Emirates Stadium and risk losing him for nothing next year.
They held a similar stance with Samir Nasri but decided to cash in when Manchester City offered £24m for him last summer.
The situation could change again with Van Persie but for now Arsenal are confident that their star striker will be at the club next season regardless of whether a contract extension can be agreed.
City, Juventus, Real Madrid and Barcelona are all ready to pounce if Van Persie indicates a willingness to push for a move this summer.
