Sir Alex talks up RvP bid

Fergie relaxed about striker's pursuit

By Zain Alvi | 20th July 2012

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has acknowledged the legitimacy of reports linking his side with Arsenal skipper Robin van Persie since yesterday, confirming that a bid was quietly submitted.

Van Persie did not travel to the Gunners’ pre-season tour of Asia amid speculation that United’s bid was being considered.

Arsenal subsequently denied that they are seriously negotiating with any bidders, but Fergie was happy to discuss his side of the story since it has already been talked about so much in the press.

“Obviously Arsenal have given out the fact that we’ve made a bid for him. We try to keep business as close as possible to us until the moment we conclude a deal,” Sir Alex was quoted.

Conceding that talks are only at the preliminary stage, the Scot added: “There’s no point talking about something that might not happen. There are other clubs interested in the player. We’ve shown an interest and that’s where we’re at at the moment.”

The 28-year old van Persie is in the last year of his contract and his refusal to sign a new deal has prompted the likes of English champions Manchester City and Italian champions Juventus to also pursue the Dutchman.

However, BBC Sport reports that the Gunners will only listen to offers in excess of £20m and preferably between £25-30m.