Edwin van der Sar hopes Arsenal striker Robin van Persie joins Manchester United

Every summer, there is one transfer story that dominates the headlines more than any other.

In 2008 is was Dimitar Berbatov, in 2009 Cristiano Ronaldo, in both 2010 and 2011 it was Cesc Fabregas and for 2012, the honour undoubtedly goes to Robin van Persie.

In the knowledge the Netherlands international had just one-year remaining on his Arsenal contract, he was always going to be linked with various other clubs this summer.

But following his announcement that he would not be renewing his contract at the Emirates, Van Persie led speculation has gone into overdrive.

Daily, 'RVP' is among the trending topics on Twitter - as it is today. And among fans speculating as to the Dutchman's future, current and former players appear to be doing their bit to influence the outcome of his future.

Today, former Manchester United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar joined the chorus urging Van Persie to join Manchester United on Twitter.

"I am getting a lot of questions about RvP and hope just the same as all you guys that he is coming to Old Trafford!!," he tweeted.

Earlier, Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany made use of his time on the airwaves, telling Sky Sports: "He's a great player. He's proved it so many times last season and any team he would play for he'd make it stronger."

The latest reports suggest United are in pole position for his signature, although Arsenal are reportedly holding out for a fee of as much as £25m - with United wanting to pay closer to £20m.

Kompany's comments today suggest City cannot be ruled out of the chase, although manager Roberto Mancini did say last week that any proposed deal was "unlikely".

There is still hope at Arsenal that their captain will have a change of mind and sign a new contract at the Emirates.

"To me he looks fit and sharp in training," said Thomas Vermaelen.

"He's working hard. He's working on his fitness. I don't see anything (different) and I hope he stays the next four years as well.

"I don't know what happens behind the scenes but at the moment I can only say he's a player for Arsenal."

How long that remains the case is uncertain, but until a definitive decision has been made, the speculation is sure to continue.