VAN PERSIE TO CHELSEA?

A report has appeared in the Press this morning that claims that Robin Van Persie will leave Old Trafford this summer and Jose Mourinho is interested in signing him for Chelsea.

Now this has made me think about the Juan Mata deal because let's face it, most of us were surprised at how simple the deal became for United and Moyes. I just wonder if there has been some sort of an agreement made giving Chelsea the first option on RVP if he was to become "available"?

RVP under Moyes looks a different player. I know he has had his injuries but compared to the lethal finisher we have become used to in the last two Premier League seasons, Van Persie looks a shadow of that player.

Now whether that's because of Moyes' tactics or the player himself, that's for people to decide but we only have to look back to a week ago after United's defeat in Greece to read his comments made to the Dutch press to understand that he isn't happy.

Taking us back to the Mata deal and you have to agree it all seemed smooth sailing didn't it? United came in with a bid that was accepted and the player moved up North, there didn't seem to be any problems at all.

I remember we heard from Mourinho stating that he wanted to do right by the player who wanted to play football. Of course the fact that we had already played each other twice helped but it just all seemed to straight forward for me.

So what could Van Persie offer Jose Mourinho and Chelsea if he was to become available by United? Well as we know he is a proven goalscorer of the highest quality. He is only 30 years old and still has two or three seasons at the top level in him.

Chelsea are often linked with top players from around Europe but RVP has been there, seen it and done it in the Premier League and that could be key. His experience could prove to be vital as Mourinho plans for next season.

In saying that, think of Mourinho's press conferences and interviews lately, especially when he talks about being classed as title favourites next season. It's almost if he knows that a deal WILL BE done for the final pieces of the squad and players he wants, almost as if it's agreed already.

Van Persie would be looking for that final big contract and although I believe if this was to happen, Chelsea would be able to sign him for a lower fee than people would expect, Chelsea could match his wage demands.

It's almost certain that Demba Ba will be sold in the summer, questions remain next season about Samuel Eto'o as he only signed a one year contract and just recently, Romelu Lukaku's future at the club has been called into question.

Chelsea will have the wage budget available and finance to make the move possible but it would all depend on the player himself.

According to the same report here, Juventus and Monaco are both also interested in signing the Dutchman but I just wonder if the temptation to return to London would be decisive.

Of course it's important to remember that at the moment, this is just rumour and speculation and we will know plenty more once the season finishes. I hope there is substance in the rumour.

So what do you people think of Van Persie to Chelsea and of Van Persie this season? Do you think it's possible that he could leave Old Trafford this season?