Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger admits Robin van Persie turned down Manchester City to sign for Manchester United. Wenger confirmed yesterday that Robin van Persie turned down an offer from Manchester City - thought to be in the region of £300,000-a-week - to join Manchester United from Arsenal this summer.

"It is true that Manchester City [were] interested in him and he has chosen to go to United," said Wenger, who acknowledged the contract offer from City. "He could come out more on the reasons but I didn't want to know more about that.

"Does it hurt more that he left for another English club? That is not exactly what I wished! I hope the reception for him is a respectful one because he has played for us for eight years, he has done very well for us. You want him to be respected. We campaign against discrimination, it was still the case last week so why should it not be the case this week? I don't know [what the fans will do], I think he will get the reception I hope for."