My thoughts exactly, Marco!

Netherlands legend Marco van Basten has urged compatriot Robin van Persie to stay with Arsenal and reject all suitors.

The 28-year-old has been in fine fettle for Arsenal this season, notching 11 goals and creating another four in 11 appearances in the Premier League. However, doubts have been raised over his future, with his current deal with the Gunners set to run out in 2013, and several top sides are rumored to be interesting in snatching the star striker from North London.

However, Van Basten believes it would be to the detriment of Van Persie to leave Arsenal.

According to reports in the Sunday Mirror, he said: "Robin must not leave Arsenal. You can't compare my situation at Ajax. The big difference is that Robin is ­already at a big club."

"Robin has been in London for six years [sic]. He can't help it that ­Arsenal have won ­nothing in that time.

"So much has changed in those six years in the Premier League."

The 47-year-old compared the financial resources available to the other top Premier League sides, and admitted his admiration for Arsenal's firm resolve to spend within their means.

"Chelsea have become a big club and have massive ­financial resources", van Basten added.

"Manchester City have ­become a big force and are richer than any other club.

"Manchester United and ­Liverpool have American owners. The amount of money which is flowing to these clubs for transfers is unbelievable. Arsenal operate differently. I admire that.

"And I still think Arsenal are the most beautiful club in ­England. At Man City and Chelsea, they will never have that class and style.

"Arsenal have the most ­amazing stadium, they have a style of play, they have a ­beautiful shirt - in every way I consider Arsenal as the ­ultimate football club.

"It is the club where Robin belongs", the football legend concluded.

----my thoughts exactly, yeahh!