Sir Alex closes in on deal for Van Persie as United prepare to offer Arsenal improved bid

Manchester United were locked in talks with Arsenal on Tuesday night over what they hope will be a deal-clinching improved offer for Robin van Persie.

Sportsmail exclusively revealed yesterday how the Gunners were expecting a new bid, with sources claiming the move could be sealed by Saturday’s big-kick off.
And United took a significant step towards securing the deal by re-opening discussions with the North London club. Their improved offer, likely to be close to Arsenal’s minimum £20m asking price, is expected to be submitted in the next 48 hours.

United front: Sir Alex is closing on the deal of the summer for Van Persie - who is with the Holland squad

 

United players themselves are becoming increasingly confident that Van Persie will be joining them in the near future.

Meanwhile, Chilean striker Angelo Henriquez will complete a £4million move to United after undergoing a medical.
Sportsmail revealed in June that United had secured first option on signing Henriquez, 18, until 2014 but Sir Alex Ferguson decided to fast-track the deal with his club Universidad de Chile when several rivals began showing an interest.

Final hurdle: The protracted deal could soon be concluded if the Gunners accept the offer for their captain

The teenager, who has been on United’s radar for three years and had previously had two trials spells at Carrington, was seen leaving the Bridgewater Hospital in Manchester following a three-hour medical. 
Darren Fletcher made his first United appearance in nine months last night after taking a break from football to battle a career-threatening stomach condition.
The Scotland midfielder, 28, received a huge ovation when he came on after 59 minutes in a friendly at Aberdeen.

Talisman: Van Persie bagged the vast majority of Arsenal's goals last season