Robin van Persie has rejected the offer of a new Arsenal contract, the striker announced via his official website on Wednesday.
The Dutch international has a year left on his current deal with the English Premier League club, who could now be tempted to cash in on their prize asset, rather than see him leave for nothing on a Bosman free transfer at the end of next season.
"I've thought long and hard about it, but I have decided not to extend my contract," Van Persie, who scored 37 goals in 48 appearance for Arsenal last season, including 30 in the Premier League, said Wednesday.
"You guys, the fans, have of course the right to disagree with my view and decision and I will always respect your opinions," added the 28-year-old, whose performances last season saw him named Player of the Year by both his fellow professionals in the Premier League and England's Football Writers' Association.
Van Persie made his debut for Arsenal back on the 8th August 2004 having signed from Dutch side Feyenoord and has since gone on to play 279 games for the gunners with an impressive 132 goals.
Source: DSG
