Juventus are ready to pull out of the battle for Arsenal striker Robin van Persie.

The Mirror says the Italian champions' general manager, Guiseppe Marotta, has made it clear that van Persie is their number one priority - but also hinted they will switch their attentions to Manchester City misfit Edin Dzeko unless they get an answer quickly.

Juventus, who have had a cheeky £8million opening gambit inevitably turned down, have now told the Gunners they will pay around £20m and are also offering van Persie £190,000-a-week AFTER tax.

The Dutch striker, who turns 29 next month and is entering the final year of his contract, is keen on joining the Italian champions, and Juventus are clearly trying to push Arsenal into a swift decision with Marotta's mention of Dzeko as an alternative.