Former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson has claimed that Robin van Persie could be "slaughtered" by the club's fans after the striker revealed that he would not be renewing his contract with the Gunners.

The 28-year-old, whose current deal will expire at the end of the upcoming season, released a statement on Wednesday making clear his intention to leave the club.

Merson now believes that the Dutchman could regret how the situation has been played out if he ends up staying.

"Not many players leave Arsenal, very rarely, and don't regret it. It's an unbelievable club," he told Sky Sports News. "It's perfect. I'd have liked him to stick it out.

"I'm a bit gutted really. He's burnt his bridges. If he comes back and they don't sell him the fans are going to slaughter him."

Van Persie scored 37 goals for Arsenal last season as they finished third in the Premier League table.