Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger will dip into his transfer budget to upgrade Robin van Persie's contract.

The Telegraph says Wenger has £50 million to spend during the next 12 months.

Van Persie is currently on around £80,000-a-week, but will be well aware that he could possibly join Samir Nasri in doubling his money at Manchester City.

Russian club Anzhi Makhachkala, who are believed to be paying Samuel Eto'o in excess of £200,000-a-week, also said on Wednesday that they are tracking Van Persie.

Arsenal are certain to offer Van Persie a pay rise and, even though he is 28, a four-year extension is expected to be put on the table.