Arsenal wapata tumaini la kubaki na Van Persie

Robin Van Persie's future has been long debated but the prolific striker has offered Arsenal fans the clearest indication yet that he intends to stay beyond this summer by modelling the club's new home kit.

The Dutch striker has just 12 months left to run on his Emirates contract and is yet to put pen to paper on a new deal.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is confident his captain will commit himself to a long-term stay but Manchester City, Real Madrid and Barcelona are among the clubs waiting to make a move should he fail to sign.

Baadhi ya wachezaji wa Arsenal wakiwa wamevaa jezi mpya za timu hiyo watakazotumia wakati wa mechi za nyumbani msimu ujao wa ligi

The 28-year-old was the leading figure in the promotion for Arsenal's new home strip - which has a prominent blue feature on the sleeves.

England forward Theo Walcott likes the addition, however, saying the design gives the Gunners 2012/13 kit a real British feel.

'I think the blue in particular in the kit reflects a British feel for the Club in a massive year for the home nations with the Olympics this summer,' said Walcott.

'Hopefully, this kit can be a part of the record books on the pitch next season and to become part of the Club’s history in years to come.'

Team-mate Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who hopes to join Walcott in Roy Hodgson's 23-man England party at this summer's Euro 2012, added:  

'I think this kit is really nice – it is a little bit different. 

'The blue has been on the home kit before but maybe not for a few years. 

'It’s quite a historic element to the kit if you look back to the 30s and part of the club crest so it is nice to have it back.'

Chanzo: Gazeti la Daily Mail