Robin van Persie shielded from media

Robin van Persie will be shielded from the media while he is on international duty with Holland this summer.

The Arsenal striker's future has been the subject of much speculation in recent weeks, with Manchester City, Manchester United, Barcelona and Real Madrid all said to be interested in his services.

As a result the Gunners, who are keen to keep hold of their captain, have lodged a request with the Dutch Football Association that Van Persie is to be pulled out of press duties to prevent him answering questions about his future.

"We made a deal with Arsenal and he won't talk to the press," a spokesman for the Dutch Football Association.

Van Persie has 12 months remaining on his contract at the Emirates Stadium.