Dutch striker Robin van Persie denied his club Arsenal to sign a new deal and wants to continue his football career away from the Emirates with his current contract due to run out in one year.
Van Persie made a statement "As announced earlier this year I had a meeting with the boss [Arsene Wenger] and Mr [Ivan] Gazidis after the season."
"This was a meeting about the club's future strategy and their policy. Financial terms or a contract have not been discussed, since that is not my priority at all.
"I personally have had a great season but my goal has been to win trophies with the team and to bring the club back to its glory days. Out of my huge respect for Mr Wenger, the players and the fans I don't want to go into any details, but unfortunately in this meeting it has again become clear to me that we in many aspects disagree on the way Arsenal should move forward.
"I've thought long and hard about it, but I have decided not to extend my contract. You guys, the fans, have of course the right to disagree with my view and decision and I will always respect your opinions.
"I love the club and the fans, no matter what happens. I have grown up and became a man during my time with Arsenal. Everybody at the club and the fans have always supported me over the years and I have always given my all (and more) on and off the pitch.
"I am very proud of being part of this fantastic club for the last eight years. As soon as Mr Gazidis is back from his two-week holiday in America further meetings will follow and I will update you if and when there are more developments."
Arsenal's stated on their site "We have to respect Robin's decision not to renew his contract. Robin has one year to run on his contract and we are confident that he will fulfill his commitments to the club. We are planning with ambition and confidence for next season."
He scored 41 goals in 53 games for club and country and was named both the Professional Footballers' Association and Football Writers' player of the year last season, and was influential in Arsenal's qualification for the Champions League with 30 Premier League goals last season.
He has not yet cleared whether will see out the remainder of his contract or ask for a move away from the Emirates.
Van Persie questioned Arsenal's aspiration, saying he wants to win trophies but that he and the club "disagree on the way Arsenal should move forward."
He is in demand by a number of leading European clubs, including the Italian champions Juventus, but City's curiosity has been known for several months and they will sanctify their interest soon with manager Roberto Mancini fraught to sign him.
But Manchester United are preparing to thump neighbors City and sign ill at ease Arsenal striker as Ferguson is also resolute to sign him.
Arsenal have seen a number of their captains abscond over recent seasons, with Patrick Vieira to Juventus, Thierry Henry and Fabregas (both to Barcelona) all leaving.
The club has not won a trophy ever since whipping Manchester United on penalties in the 2005 FA Cup final, the summer following which Vieira was sold.
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