Van Persie inks new deal with Arsenal

AFP - 8 July 2009 12:10

Arsenal´s Dutch forward Robin Van Persie celebrates scoring the second goal of the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Stoke City at The Emirates Stadium in London. Van Persie has agreed a new long-term contract with Arsenal, the club said.

LONDON (AFP) - Dutch flyer Robin van Persie has agreed a new long-term contract with Arsenal, the club said Wednesday.

The 25-year-old, who joined the Gunners from Feyenoord in 2004, was the club's top scorer last season with 20 goals from 44 appearances.

The deal is reportedly worth around 80,000 pounds (125,000 dollars) a week.

"I have been at the club for five years now and there really is a great feeling here at Arsenal," said Van Persie.

"We have a top-class manager, a squad full of superb young players, a world-class stadium and brilliant supporters.

"Arsenal have a very bright future and I want to be part of it."

Van Persie had been linked with a move to rivals Manchester United, but insisted that "my heart is with Arsenal and I just can't picture myself in a different shirt."