Arsenal must keep Van Persie 'at all costs', says Wenger

Jul 3, 2012 7:51:00 PM

The Netherlands forward has reportedly attracted the interest of Manchester City and Juventus, but his manager insists it is vital he stays with the Gunners this summer

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says the club must keep hold of star striker Robin van Persie this summer "at all costs".

Van Persie is a reported target for Manchester City and Italian giants Juventus following a season in which he scored 30 Premier League goals in 38 appearances.

And the Frenchman expressed his hope that the 28-year-old will repay the faith shown by The Gunners during several injury absences by committing his future.

In his blog for Eurosport, Wenger wrote: "We want to keep Robin van Persie at all costs, because we depend on him offensively.

"I have always supported him even in the hardest times, and I hope he will end his career at Arsenal."

Wenger also went on to discuss his most recent signing, France international Olivier Giroud, who has arrived from Montpellier for a fee of around £13 million.

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"I have known Olivier Giroud for some time,” Wenger continued.

"The first time I saw him, I found he had something intelligent and dangerous. I always said he could score goals and assist his partners.

"Our game is based on cooperation between the players in the offensive phase and he will integrate easily. I don't like simple goalscorers, they must also add to the collective.

"He is good in the air which is rare. He is quite complete and has a great room for improvement."

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