Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is keen on Arsenal skipper Robin van Persie.

The Sunday Mirror says Arsenal are determined to keep Van Persie - manager Arsene Wenger insisted this week they will not sell this summer, the Dutchman is under contract until summer 2013 and Wenger is "confident" the player will stay - but that has not deterred interest from Manchester City, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Barcelona.

Real seemed to be the most likely destination if Van Persie was to leave, but there are doubts the Spanish club have the spending power required.

While United are watching developments closely, neighbours City believe Van Persie favours a move abroad if he decides to leave Arsenal.