Fenerbahçe forward Robin van Persie. (Photo : Getty Images)
English Premier League side Stoke City FC is rumored to be intending to bring back former Manchester United star Robin van Persie to England as the Dutch forward is also keen on leaving his current club Fenerbahçe SK of the Turkish Süper Lig this summer.
The 32-year-old forward, who also suited up as team captain for English top flight club Arsenal before becoming a mainstay at the Old Trafford, reportedly "wants to quit" the Yellow Canaries "for a return to the Premier League" next season, the Mirror reported.
Van Persie just finished his first season with the Turkish club appearing in a total of 48 games in all competitions and scoring 22 goals in the process.
His last Premier League stint was during the 2014-2015 season at the Old Trafford, his third with United, with then head coach Louis van Gaal's Red Devils, where he netted 10 goals in 27 domestic games. He had been a consistent goalscoring machine for the club since they acquired him from the Gunners in the summer of 2012 for £24 million.
The 6-foot Rotterdam, Netherlands native unleashed a 26-goal output in 38 English top flight games during his first season with United before following it up with 12 goals in 21 games the following year.
Despite his advancing age, van Persie had consistently shown that he is still a reliable offensive threat, which is why head coach Mark Hughes and the Potters are keen on bringing him back to England's first division competitions.
However, Caught Offside noted that Fenerbahçe is reportedly keen on keeping their prized forward at their side next season, where they lured him with high wages and a starring role in their squad. Van Persie still has two years left in his current deal with the Legend.
There were also reports that aside from the Potters, newly-promoted Premier League club Middlesbrough FC is also interested in acquiring the Dutch striker's services for the coming term.
Boro manager Aitor Karanka is said to be "looking to bolster" his attacking options next season to ensure their stay in the first division in 2017-2018. Club chairman Steve Gibson is also reportedly ready to utilize "his high-powered contacts" to secure van Persie's signing.
West Ham United and Crystal Palace were also rumored to be trying to pursue van Persie as he became one of the most in-demand players this offseason.
