Arsenal will go into next week's make-or-break talks hoping Robin Van Persie will make Wayne Rooney-esque U-turn and agree to a new contract with the North London club.
Van Persie released a statement on his website recently, stating his intention to not sign a new contract, and criticizing the club for lacking ambition. The Dutch striker, who scored 37 goals for Arsenal in all competitions last season, is expected to return to pre-season training next week and Arsene Wenger is hopeful of convincing the Dutch master to stay at the Emirates.
The Daily Mail, citing a well-placed source at the club, reported Arsenal were "very hopeful" of persuading Van Persie to stay. The Arsenal management feel the controversial statement was instigated by Van Persie's agent Kees Voss, to secure a better deal for his client, similar to the ploy Wayne Rooney's representatives executed.
Rooney spoke of similar lack of ambition and the club's vision not gelling with his in 2010, while speaking of a desire to leave Manchester United. A few days later, however, the United talisman signed a new contract after the Old Trafford club offered more money.
The Gunners have put a three-year contract worth £130,000 a week ($201,000), with a £5 million ($7.7 million) loyalty bonus, on the table.
However, if Arsenal fail to agree a new deal with their striker, it is understood, Wenger will look to sell Van Persie as quickly as possible.
The Frenchman is already looking at bringing in an attacking midfielder capable of playing behind the striker with Stevan Jovetic a prime target. Arsenal are also reportedly looking at Brazilian midfielder Ganso, who plays for Santos. Ganso has had injury problems off late and has seen his form and confidence dip down considerably over the last year or so.
However, Wenger is a big admirer of the 22-year-old's talent's. Ganso rejected a new contract proposal from Santos and his representative, who owns 55 percent of the player's rights, said recently the midfielder would never play for Santos again.
Ganso has struggled to cope with a high-tempo high-pressure game at times, so it remains to be seen if Wenger will be willing to take a gamble on the player, who has made eight international appearances for Brazil.
Meanwhile, highly-rated Arsenal teenager Benik Afobe is close to sealing a loan move to championship side Birmingham City.
