Wenger rules out striker move

Arsene Wenger says he is disappointed to lose Robin van Persie to Manchester United but says his replacement is already on board.

The Gunners have finally accepted Manchester United's offer for the Dutchman, who will now travel north to undergo a medical and agree personal terms before signing on the dotted line. Wenger has fought hard to keep the player but admits it was always a lost cause as the striker's contract situation meant he would always be sold if he did not agree to a new one. "It's sad to lose a player of his quality," Wenger admitted. "He had a year left on his deal so we didn't have the choice." There have been suggestions Wenger could delve into the transfer market again to replace him but with Lukas Podolski and Olivier Giroud already on board, that looks unlikely. "We've already recruited to replace him," Wenger added. United will pay £15m cash up front with the fee rising to a guaranteed £22m and that represents good business for the Gunners despite the obvious disappointment of seeing him leave.