Arsenal move for Dutch ace

Arsenal sent a scout to watch Van Persie in December

Arsenal have made a move for Feyenoord winger Robin van Persie, according to the Dutch club.

External affairs manager Jan D Swart said that Arsenal were keen to sign the 20-year-old during the transfer window.

"They have made a serious opening offer and our president, Jorien van den Herik, has responded - it is a base for further negotiations" said Swart.

Van Persie has made it known that he plans to leave Feyenoord at the end of his contract, which ends in 2005.

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It has been reported that Arsenal's initial offer was in the region of £3m, but the Dutch club are expected to hold out for £5m.

Feyenoord spokesman Fred Blankemeijer said: "We have rejected a first bid and we are waiting for Arsenal to come back to us.

"We are waiting for written confirmation of a second bid from them."

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Van Persie's advisor and spokesman, Erwin Boonacker, added: "Robin has informed Feyenoord that he will not extend his contract.

"It is a dream to continue his career abroad and in December, Robin was visited by an Arsenal representative."

Van Persie is a left-sided player, who made his Feyenoord debut in the 2001-02 campaign when he made 10 appearances, before emerging last season with eight goals.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger refused to comment on the reports.

"They can say what they want, I can't comment on that," he said.

"I can just say that we haven't signed anyone and you can trust me that when we've signed someone, we will inform you.

"When a club wants to sell a player, Arsenal are always said to be interested."