LONDON — Dutch international striker Robin Van Persie completed his move from Arsenal to Manchester United Friday after signing a four-year deal. Van Persie, who scored 37 goals for Arsenal in all competitions last season, is set to make his debut in United's Premier League opener against Everton Monday. “Robin is a world-class striker with a proven record in England and in European football,” United manager Alex Ferguson told the club's website. “His talents need no introduction to our fans - he has scored a number of goals against us in some classic battles with his former club. His movement, finishing and all-round ability are outstanding.” British media reported that United paid 24 million pounds ($37.78 million) for the 29-year-old. “It's an honor to sign for Manchester United. I am looking forward to following in the footsteps of so many great strikers, bringing my experience and playing my part to help the team compete for the biggest trophies in the game,” Van Persie said. “I can't wait to get started.” Van Persie had one year remaining on his deal with Arsenal, who he joined in 2004. He said in July that he would not be extending his contract with the Londoners because he was unhappy with the direction they were taking. Arsenal, who finished third in the Premier League last season, has not won a major trophy since the 2005 FA Cup. Manager Arsene Wenger has, meanwhile, named Belgium defender Thomas Vermaelen as Arsenal's new captain. Vermaelen has already skippered Arsenal at various times over the last two seasons and, with previous captain van Persie on the verge of completing his switch to Old Trafford, the centre-back will now wear the armband on a permanent basis. Wenger, speaking at a press conference on Friday ahead of Saturday's Premier League opener against Sunderland, also confirmed that Spanish midfielder Mikel Arteta will be Arsenal's new vice-captain. Wenge also admitted Friday that Cameroon midfielder Alex Song could be the next Arsenal star to leave the Emirates Stadium. Asked if it was possible the 24-year-old could leave and if other players would arrive to replace Song and van Persie, Arsenal manager Wenger said: “Both can happen. “This decision (on Song) is not made. No (bid has been made). I cannot tell you more.” Wenger was desperate to hang onto van Persie and he has admitted his sale was a “bitter pill” to swallow. But the Frenchman is rather more relaxed about the prospect of losing Song, who emerged a key figure in the central midfield holding role last season. Wenger believes he already has enough quality in midfield to cope without Song and, speaking at his press conference ahead of Saturday's Premier League opener against Sunderland, he said: “Midfield is a different area because we have nine or 10 midfielders of top-class quality. “Just today we have six or seven midfielders available, plus (Jack) Wilshere and (Emmanuel) Frimpong who are coming back.” — Agencies
