Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel says Robin van Persie's arrival has transformed the nature of the title race.

Schmeichel insists van Persie's eye-catching arrival from Arsenal can help wrest the Barclays Premier League title crown back from another of his former clubs, Manchester City.

"I'm very excited about the season ahead," declared Schmeichel in the United Review. "And, for me, the signing of Robin van Persie is a real game-changer. By bringing Robin in, we've shown our intent for the season - we've got the one player everyone wanted and we got him because we can provide a fantastic platform for anyone who has ambitions of winning trophies.

"We have gone from being neck and neck with Manchester City to now, in my opinion, being ahead; our squad has greater depth than anyone else in the league.

"Of course, while things may look very good on paper, lessons must be learned from last season and the players need to go out and do the business. But there is no question we have the personnel to win the title back."