Vieira – Arsenal must keep RVP

One of the biggest concerns for Arsenal fans this summer is bound to be the future of star striker and captain Robin Van Persie. Speculation is rife that he could be on his way out of the Emirates, something the club can ill afford to do. This is the view of former Gunners captain Patrick Vieira who believes that losing Van Persie – who will be involved in Holland euro 2012 betting odds - would be much more significant than the loss of Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri next summer. He said: “Losing Samir Nasri and Cesc Fabregas last year was a big shock for Arsenal. If they lose Robin Van Persie this year it will be a drama.” “With Samir and Cesc you can say 'okay those two are gone', but behind you know that there is Jack Wilshere and Van Persie still at the club - but if Robin comes to leave, that means next year it may be Theo Walcott, then the next year is it going to be Wilshere?” “It is going to be difficult for Arsenal to keep the top players.” "On the other side if they keep Robin they are going to send a positive message to all the clubs and to all the people around and I think it's really important to keep him.” One of the biggest problems for Arsenal of course has been the lack of silverware. They haven’t won a trophy since the FA Cup in 2005, making Van Persie think twice about where his future lies. Vieira continued: “Robin wants to win trophies. Arsenal have to show him he can do it with Arsenal.” "The best way for them to get him to sign a contract is to bring players to the club who can show him that the club are in the same line as him.” "It is really important because we know how Robin loves Arsenal - that is not the question, the question is how Arsene Wenger will convince Robin they can win trophies.” Van Persie held talks with Arsenal this week of course, but nothing has been mentioned since and presumably nothing was concluded. A decision will perhaps be made after Euro 2012.