ARSENAL TRANSFER NEWS: Van Persie, Ramsey, Vermaelen, and Bendtner On the Move?
While Arsenal have already added some strong talent for next season with the additions of forwards Lukas Podolski and Olivier Giroud, there are a few high-profile names who may move on.
The most notable of players who could exit the club is Robin van Persie. The 28-year-old forward has been the subject of intense media coverage over his expiring contract.
Manager Arsene Wenger has scoffed at claims that the Gunners will lose Van Persie this offseason, and particularly made light of the idea that the Dutch star could move to Juventus.
He will stay at Arsenal, Wenger told the Italian newspaper La Repubblica. There is no reason why a top player, a big champion would want a move to Serie A - in terms of the prestige of the league, the level of play or financial considerations.
While the Turin giants might be a longshot to sign Van Persie, Manchester City retain a strong interest in the Arsenal star. The two clubs were active in negotiations in 2011 over two prominent Arsenal players.
In a turbulent summer for the Gunners, City and Arsenal reached an agreement over the sale of Samir Nasri, in a somewhat surprising £25 million deal. Nasri was joined by long-time Gunners left back Gael Clichy, who made the move to the Etihad for a £7 million fee.
The Daily Telegraph recently reported that City plan on making a formal bid for Van Persie, while The Sun claims that City are preparing an opening £20 million bid. With their deep pockets, City are also capable of tripling van Persie's salary.
Another player who might be on the move is centre back Thomas Vermaelen. According to the Daily Mirror, Barcelona have shown interest in the 26-year-old Belgian star. Though Barcelona have previously lured Cesc Fabreags away from the Emirates, it seems somewhat far-fetched to assume Arsenal would let Vermaelen depart considering his important role with the club, and the Gunners' lack of depth at the position.
The Press Association reported that Aaron Ramsey might be on the move to Fulham. After suffering a serious leg injury in 2010, the 21-year-old Welsh midfielder returned last season and filled in admirably for the first half of the campaign, before fading in later games. The Cottagers are reportedly bidding £5 million for Ramsey.
The most likely permanent departure from Arsenal continues to be Nicklas Bendtner. The 24-year-old Dane had a solid Euro 2012 campaign, and is drawing interest from multiple clubs.
Arsenal loaned Bendtner to Sunderland last term, but the forward had reportedly garnered interest from Bundesliga clubs.
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