Manchester United to match Manchester City bid for Robin van Persie

Manchester United are reportedly preparing a lucrative offer for Arsenal forward Robin van Persie.

The 28-year-old Dutchman, who is out of contract in 12 months' time, met with Gunners bosses yesterday and is said to have expressed his frustration at the club's lack of ambition.

Manchester City are the favourites to sign Van Persie and had been linked with a move for the player, involving a £25m transfer fee and wages of £250,000 per week.

Sir Alex Ferguson is also known to be an admirer of the striker and the Red Devils are willing to match their City rivals' proposed financial package, according to The Mirror.

Arsenal are believed to have offered Van Persie wages of £130,000 per week to stay at the Emirates Stadium.