Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is reluctant to meet Arsenal's asking price for Robin van Persie.

Ferguson has confirmed a bid has been lodged for the want-away Dutchman, who favours a move to Old Trafford.

But the Mirror says Ferguson is understood to have major reservations about bidding over £15m as the Dutchman turns 29 next week, has a poor injury record and has only the one year left on his deal.