Fergie wants Van Perse

 Ferguson has today made the first move by confirming the Red Devils have opened talks over the Arsenal skipper.

The United boss said: "Obviously Arsenal have given out the fact that we've made a bid for him.

Europe’s top clubs were put on red alert when the Dutchman refused to sign a new contract earlier this month.

Arsenal's Robin van Persie is in high demand - Manchester United, Manchester City and Italian side Juventus have all made bids to buy the striker.

He's currently on contract with Arsenal until 2013 and had already said he won't be signing a new deal with them.

It's been reported that the three clubs put in offers of around £15 million for the Dutchman, who joined the Gunners in 2004 for £2.75m.

But Arsenal is keen to hold out for a larger fee of £25-30m.