Robin van Persie has expressed his desire to leave Arsenal. Photo: Dominic Lipinski/PA Wire

Alan Smith does not believe that Dutchman will join another English side

Alan Smith believes the signings of Lukas Podolski and Olivier Giroud could indicate that Arsene Wenger is making contingency plans should Robin Van Persie exit the Emirates.

The Dutch striker’s current contract expires at the end of next season, with PSG, Manchester City and Real Madrid all allegedly interested in the forward.

The Gunners have boosted their attacking options with the signing of Podolski, while Giroud is expected to complete a £12million move after Euro 2012.

And Smith believes those acquisitions could have been made in case Van Persie departs.

“Arsene Wenger’s already brought in Lukas Podolski and he’s looking at Olivier Giroud,” he told Talksport. “Maybe he’s planning for life without Robin van Persie?

“I’d be surprised to see Robin van Persie join another English club,” he said. “He’s a Gunner through and through.

“It’s all about ambition with Robin. If he does leave then it sends out a really bad message that Arsenal can’t keep hold of their best players.”