Wenger urges RVP to repay loyalty

Arsene Wenger is hopeful the loyalty he has shown to Robin van Persie will be reciprocated by the Dutchman committing his future to Arsenal.

When Van Persie arrived at Arsenal from Feyenoord in 2004 he had a reputation as something of a loose cannon, but he has had unswerving support from his manager. That has not changed, with Wenger describing his man as the "best striker" at Euro 2012 despite Netherlands losing all three games.

Focus is now on Van Persie's club future as the striker enters the final year of his contract. Rival clubs are sniffing around, though chairman Peter Hill-Wood recently denied reports Juventus had already made a bid, but Wenger has made it clear how important the 28-year-old is to his team ahead of the next round of talks.

"We want to keep Robin van Persie at all costs," Wenger said. "We depend on him offensively. "I have always supported him, even in the hardest times, and I hope he ends his career at Arsenal."

Meanwhile, Arsenal have confirmed that Lukas Podolski has officially completed his move from Cologne. The Gunners confirmed the signing of the Germany international at the end of April and he has now put pen to paper on the contract.