Former Premier League striker not returning to England

Mark Scott

Fenerbahce have released a statement on their official website ruling that a transfer for Robin van Persie is “out of the question”.

Stoke and Middlesbrough were among the Premier League clubs linked with the 32-year-old, but the former Arsenal and Manchester United forward is staying put in Turkey.

“In recent days, there have been so many rumours in the media about Robin van Persie leaving Fenerbahce,” the statement read.

“These speculations are not true. After a meeting with the player’s agent, Van Persie’s transfer to any other club is out of the question.”

This is the second setback in as many days for new boys Boro, who have also missed out on signing Borussia Dortmund centre-back Neven Subotic.

Stoke, meanwhile, may make West Brom’s Saido Berahino their main priority now that Van Persie’s future has been clarified.