Wenger Insistent on Van Persie

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger wants captain Robin van Persie to remain at the club beyond the closing of the transfer window.

The Dutchman has been heavily linked with a move to Manchester United, and manager Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed his interest in the marksman.

A deal is however yet to be agreed and having featured in Arsenal's pre-season victory over Cologne, Wenger is optimistic he can tempt the striker to stay.

"There's no news on Van Persie," Wenger said.

"Our fans want him to stay so you can understand they are excited.

"Anything I could say about Van Persie would be a lie because he's our player and that's it.

"Robin scored 30 goals last season and you want to keep your best player.

"He was player of the year in England. We want to keep him. I cannot tell you more at the moment because I don't know more."

Van Persie was booed throughout Arsenal's 4-0 win over Cologne, where Lukas Podolski scored twice, with Thomas Vermaelen and Gervinho notching as the club continued their pre-season preparations.

The Gunners open their campaign at home to Sunderland hoping to improve on a third place finish last season and contest for the league title to help end their lengthy trophy drought.

Meanwhile, winger Ryo Miyaichi will spend the coming campaign on loan at Wigan Athletic after the two clubs agreed a season long loan deal.

The 19 year old spent last season on loan at Bolton Wanderers, where he scored once in 14 outings and installed himself as a fans favourite for his tenacity off the ball and ferocious pace on it.

Miyaichi will play under Spaniard Roberto Martinez next season, as a potential replacement for Victor Moses, who is looking set to leave the DW Stadium.

Moses has been linked with a move to Chelsea this summer, however a fee is still to be finalised, but The Latics have a ready-made replacement in the Arsenal youngster.