Former Arsenal striker John Hartson believes that Robin van Persie is "weighing up" his future, which could mean an exit from the Emirates.

The Dutchman has been prolific for the Gunners this season but the North London club has yet to tie down the frontman with a new contract.

Arsenal's hopes of reaching the quarter-finals of the Champions League have suffered a blow following a 4-0 defeat to AC Milan in the first leg of the round-of-16 clash.

"He's looking at the situation," Hartson told talkSPORT. "He's holding out with his contract to see if Arsenal can secure fourth place, if they can guarantee Champions League football then he might stay.

"Van Persie will look at the type of players that Arsenal want to bring in. He loves Arsenal, he's a wonderful player and he's so, so important to them.

"He's weighing up his options and he's going to see what Arsenal and Wenger do next before he makes his decision. Why they've left it so long is beyond me."

Arsene Wenger's side are currently in fourth place of the Premier League on level points with Chelsea.