Manchester United want to sell Robin van Persie, former Netherlands international Pierre van Hooijdonk has revealed.
The 31-year-old endured a below-par campaign last season and has been heavily linked with a possible move to Fenerbahce in Turkey.
And van Hooijdonk, who played for the Turkish side between 2003 and 2005, believes that van Persie should leave Old Trafford to enjoy regular football elsewhere and be in top shape for next year's European championship in France.
"As early as January of this year, I received information from Turkey about Robin and Fenerbahce," van Hooijdonk told the Daily Mirror.
"The minute this information came, you knew that United had sent people to test the water for a move.
"Agents and others were searching for big clubs who are prepared to pay the high fee involved for van Persie.
"Robin's contract expires next year, so this is the moment when United can still get money for him.
"van Persie is in a difficult situation. To the outside world he says he is happy to stay and I can understand this. But Robin has the feeling that United want to get rid of him.
"A big club in England, Spain or Germany is a more attractive option.
"Until the player realises that behind his back the two clubs have done a big deal.
"That is the moment the pressure is put on. You are almost forced to go to the club where your employer has struck a deal. This is what I mean with games being played right now."
