Van Persie Joins Nani In Fenerbahce

Manchester United striker Robin Van Persie is edging closer to a move to Fenerbahce after reaching an agreement in principle with the Super Lig side, reports theguardian.com.

It is understood that Van Persie’s agent, Kees Vos, has been in Istanbul for the past two days, involved in negotiations with the Turkish club to secure a deal. The two clubs are currently negotiating a fee for the 31-year-old, who has agreed personal terms with the club and is ready to sign a four-year deal.

Since being Louis van Gaal’s captain when the Dutchman coached Holland at last summer’s World Cup in Brazil, Van Persie’s stock has fallen dramatically at United. When Van Gaal took over the 20-times champions a few days after the tournament ended, Van Persie was considered the favourite to be named United’s new leader following Nemanja Vidic’s departure.

However, Van Gaal chose Wayne Rooney to wear the armband instead with Darren Fletcher and Michael Carrick his vice-captains. This was an initial indication of how the manager viewed Van Persie and by the end of the season the striker had been dropped by Van Gaal.

Even Radamel Falcao, who suffered a dismal campaign while on-loan at United, kept Van Persie out of the side. For the pivotal visit to Chelsea on April 18 Falcao started against José Mourinho’s team and Van Persie was an unused substitute. What may be his final appearance for the club came as a 61st-minute substitute for Falcao in the 1-1 draw with Arsenal at Old Trafford on May 17.

For a player who fired United to their last championship, in the 2012-13 season, Sir Alex Ferguson’s final in charge, his exit, if confirmed, will prove muted. Since that season Van Persie has been injury plagued and his goal return has fallen away. Last season he managed only 10 in all competitions for United.