Van Persie On His Way to Barcelona?

With his contract set to expire next year and an apparent reluctance to commit his long-term future to Arsenal (200/1 to win the Premier League) , it is to be expected that speculation about Robin van Persie's future is rife. The Dutchman has shown to be one of the best players on the planet with his performances this season which continued yesterday with a hat-trick in Arsenal's 7-1 win over Blackburn. That took his seasonal tally to 28 goals in 30 games along with eight assists and reports have surfaced of an approach by Barcelona for van Persie's services.

While Barcelona have been dominating European football and constructing an almost perfect team, they have continually struggled to find a striker who fits perfectly into their system. Samuel Eto'o was traded for Zlatan Ibrahimovic but the Swede only lasted one season before falling out with Pep Guardiola.

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Barcelona (9/4 to win La Liga) next tried David Villa who they bought from Valencia but he was quickly forced out on to the left wing as Barcelona's play revolves more and more around Lionel Messi. Villa has reportedly become disillusioned not playing in his favoured position and could seek a move away from the Nou Camp.

Robin Van Persie suits the Barcelona mould perfectly. He can play high up field as an out and out stirker but has the technical ability to drop deep and create chances in Barclelona's intricate style. The prospect of Barcelona adding another player of van Persie's class to their ranks is frankly frightening.

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However Arsenal fans' fears of losing their star man have been allayed somewhat by Barcelona's vice president Josep Maria Batomeu who has denied that any contact with the Gunners has been made.

"Nothing exists with RVP. It's rumours that appear in the papers. We've not contacted Arsenal, nor his agent. Our focus is now on the league and Copa del Rey. It's necessary ot be focused on the task at hand and not be distracted by the transfer market."

Club officials are not renowned for their complete honesty though and the conjecture over RVP's future will continue until he pens a new deal at the Emirates.