Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has claimed that Robin van Persie might want to leave the club in order to win silverware.

The Dutchman's future at the Emirates Stadium is under intense speculation as he delays signing a new contract.

Despite the Gunners enjoying a strong end to the season, Petit believes that a move would be understandable for the 28-year-old.

"I hope he will stay at Arsenal, he said. "I really, really hope he will stay because Arsenal and [manager Arsene Wenger] are showing some signs of ambitions at the end of this season.

"I don't know what Robin is thinking and I would understand as well if he did try to decide to leave the club because you can't refuse some points financially.

"I don't know if it's the main problem but I think he wants to win titles as well and players like him need to get some titles on their CV. That's why I can understand it."

Manchester City, Barcelona and Real Madrid are the three main contenders thought to be interested in Van Persie.