Robin Van Persie will always be fondly remember by Manchester United fans for the wonderful goal-scoring impact he made in his first season at Old Trafford to secure the club’s record-breaking 20th title in 2013, but he has since failed to reach the same heights.
His fans may point to the wonderful diving header he scored for the Netherlands at the 2014 World Cup against Spain as an indication that the 31-year-old still has what it takes to play at the highest level, but his time at Manchester United may be coming to an end following another injury-hit season for the Dutchman.
The player himself has admitted to finding himself in a ‘strange’ situation and will evaluate his options if Louis Van Gaal cannot guarantee him regular first-team football. Van Persie may have no shortage of interested suitors if Manchester United decide to sell the Dutchman, but while there is still more than a chance that he will remain at Old Trafford next season, a number of clubs will be keeping a close eye on his situation as he enters the final year of his contract.
Juventus
After spending eleven years plying his trade in the Premier League, Van Persie may seek a new challenge abroad to experience a new league and surroundings. Juventus have long held an interest in bringing the Dutchman to Italy and appear to be the frontrunners for his signature if Van Persie becomes available.
Winning the Serie A title for the fourth consecutive year and reaching the Champions League Final perfectly illustrate how Juventus have re-emerged as a dominant force following the Calciopoli scandal which threatened to destroy their prestigious history, but their determination to build a new legacy has seen them target Van Persie as their marquee signing this summer.
Although Juventus have recently secured the signing of highly-promising striker Paolo Dybala from Palermo for £23.4 million, Massimo Allegri will still pursue a deal for Van Persie in the hope of pairing him with Carlos Tevez to form a lethal partnership.
Galatasaray
Although Galatasaray and Fenerbahce failed with lucrative contract offers for Van Persie in April, it is possible that the former may renew their interest during the summer transfer market.
Winning the 2014/2015 Super Lig title may encourage Galatasaray to target high-profile names in the hope of fending off competition from Fenerbahce and Besiktas, with their chances of signing Van Persie improved by the presence of close friend and international team-mate Wesley Sneijder at the Turk Telekom Arena.
It would be a surprise if Van Persie decides to move to Turkey, but the prospect of playing regular domestic and Champions League football at a club where he will be considered the number one striker may convince the Dutchman to leave Old Trafford for pastures new.
