Arteta thinks Van Persie will stay

Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta says Robin van Persie is not affected by speculation surrounding his future and does not expect the captain to leave.

Dutchman Van Persie has been in scintillating form this season, with 23 goals to his name already, including hat-tricks against Blackburn and London rivals Chelsea.

Such performances are rumoured to have attracted attention from across the continent, with Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid reportedly interested in the 28-year-old striker.

Nevertheless, team-mate Arteta is confident the Netherlands international will remain at the Emirates Stadium.

“I do not see Van Persie leaving Arsenal,” Arteta told COM Radio.

“He is completely unaffected by interest from Real Madrid and Barcelona and not thinking about his contract renewal either.”

“Now he is very calm and is not nervous about anything. I know he has said that in the summer he will consider things, talk it over and take the decision that he will take.”