PSG join elite clubs for Van Persie's signature

Paris Saint-Germain are preparing to rival Manchester City for Arsenal striker Robin van Persie.Club director Leonardo has made tentative enquiries as to the Holland international's availability this summer.

The Ligue 1 club were initially told the Gunners had no intention of selling their skipper, but the ongoing uncertainty over Van Persie's future has led to PSG rekindling their interest.

Manager Carlo Ancelotti knows all about the 29-year-old from his days at Chelsea and is keen to bring the striker to France.PSG - who are financially driven by mega-rich Qatari Investment Authority - have the funds to compete with big-spending City.

Van Persie has made it clear he will only leave Arsenal to join a title-challenging club in a major European league. Manchester City are preparing a formal £20million offer for the striker.

Van Persie - who has a year left on his contract - is stalling on a new three-year deal worth £130,000-per-week - plus a £5million bonus.

Earlier this week, City boss Roberto Mancini - a long-term admirer of the Dutchman - was coy when asked about Van Persie, who has a year left to run on his contract at the Emirates Stadium.

City, though, have the power to offer the 29-year-old in excess of £200,000 a week as well as the chance to win the Barclays Premier League.

If City are to push a deal through they will need to offload one of their other high earners such as Emmanuel Adebayor or Carlos Tevez.