“I don’t think United should touch him with a bargepole.’’

Having declared his intention to leave Arsenal during the week, Robin Van Persie has been linked with a number of clubs including Manchester United.

The Dutch striker took to his personal website to question the direction the north London club were going, having failed to win a trophy since 2005.

The striker had his best goal scoring season last term with 37 in all competitions but his efforts amounted to little as Arsenal could only muster a 3rd place finish in the league.

The striker is hot property at the moment but one former United boss is less than impressed with Van Persie’s statement and, despite his goal scoring feats, would prefer if Sir Alex Ferguson steered well clear of the striker.

The Daily Express have quoted FA Cup winning manager Tommy Docherty as saying:

“What right as a player does van Persie have to say Arsenal is not heading in the right direction?

“He might be looking to move, but I don’t think United should touch him with a bargepole.’’