Fenerbahce vow to keep ‘precious’ Van Persie

Fenerbahce have claimed Robin van Persie is a “precious player” and they have no plans to sell the striker.

The former Manchester United man is believed to be unhappy with life in Turkey after being left on the bench and there has been talk of a move away from the Super Lig side just four months after arriving from Old Trafford.

Barcelona have been mentioned as possible suitors for the 32-year-old once their transfer embargo is lifted in January, but Fener have made it clear they want to keep the 32-year-old, who has scored four league goals this season.

“The news [is] aiming to break our player Van Persie’s motivation,” read a club statement.

“We do not plan to sell Van Persie and he does not want to leave. He is a precious player of the squad and he will keep serving our team.”

Fenerbahce president Aziz Yildirim is believed to be unimpressed by the Dutch international since his £3.84million arrival from United and reports in Turkey have claimed the Istanbul club are chasing Fluminense’s Brazil international striker Fred, which fuelled speculation that Van Persie was on the way out.

However, the club’s latest statement suggests they are keen to keep hold of the forward, who was recently labelled an “****hole” by former Dutch striker Pierre van Hooijdonk.