Sir Alex Ferguson has held private talks with Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger with regards to the sale of their star striker Robin Van Persie. The contact between the two managers will see an improved offer being made by Manchester United and this could see Van Persie join United before their first home game.

Arsene Wenger reportedly told Ferguson that he would not be willing to sell the striker for anything less than £30 million. With Ferguson personally getting involved in the deal it just shows you how much the club want the Dutch international. The high price quoted by Wenger is because he does not want to sell to a Premier League rival but United are also adamant that they will not match £30 million.

Van Persie does not have many more options available to him as he looks to leave Arsenal. Manchester City and Juventus were both early favourites to land the striker but the pair have cooled their interest. Manchester City boss Mancini said that they would not be adding Van Persie to their squad and would be looking elsewhere for additions.

Wenger has also seen another of his prized assets targeted. Alex Song has been the subject of increased attention from Barcelona. It seems that Barcelona will try and open talks with the club this week. When Song was asked on the speculation he said: ‘I am not going to lie if I said there is no interest, but I am at Arsenal and I am happy at Arsenal. Barcelona are the best team in the world, and speculation will always continue until the window closes.’