Arsenal skipper Robin van Persie has shocked fans after being spotted at Barcelona's team hotel - the Marriott on Park Lane.

It is not yet known why Van Persie took the trip to the base of the Spanish giants, who are in London ahead of Wednesday's Champions League semi-final first leg with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

The Dutchman was spotted chatting with fellow countryman Ibrahim Afellay, who is part of the Barca party in the capital, says the Daily Mail.

Van Persie may have also used the trip to catch up with his old Gunners pal Cesc Fabregas, who left the Emirates to rejoin his boyhood club last summer.

However, Arsenal fans will fear that his friendliness with the Barcelona team will only increase his chances of moving to the Nou Camp at the end of the season.