Arsene Wenger desperate to keep Robin van Persie

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has claimed that the club will do "anything possible" to keep Robin van Persie at the Emirates.

The Dutch striker has been prolific for the Gunners this season but has decided to postpone talks over a new contract with the North London side until the end of the season.

With less than 18 months left on Van Persie's current deal, reports have suggested that the 28-year-old could be targeting a move away from Arsenal this summer.

"We will do anything possible to keep him," said Wenger. "I cannot say much more because I have said that many times.

"I am very proud that he has grown, having seen the boy arrive here timid and today being the player he is and the leader of the team he has become.

"He is playing under big pressure in every game because he knows he has to score. That is excellent development not only as a player but as a human being. He is up there among the best players in the world."

The likes of Real Madrid and Premier League leaders Manchester City have been linked with the frontman.