Mancini: Man Utd need a ‘top player’ like Arsenal star

Saturday, August 11, 2012
9:19 AM

Transfer news: The future of Arsenal’s Robin van Persie is hanging in the balance

Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has revealed he expects Manchester United to win the race for Arsenal striker Robin van Persie and thinks he will make them title favourites.

Mancini has been frustrated by the Man City board’s refusal to challenge United for Van Persie’s signature and believes the Arsenal man will be a success at Old Trafford.

“If United buy Van Persie it is better for them,” said Mancini.

The unsettled Dutchman is expected to feature in Arsenal’s pre-season friendly against Cologne on Sunday but his long-term future could lie elsewhere.

“[Man Utd] need a player like Van Persie,” Mancini continued.

“He could play for any team because he is a top player.”

“United start as favourites this year.”