Paris St Germain drop out of race to sign Arsenal striker Robin van Persie

Robin van Persie has one-year remaining on his contract (GETTY IMAGES)

Coach of big-spending Paris St Germain, Carlo Ancelotti, has said that he will not be pursuing Arsenal’s Robin van Persie or Juventus’ Andrea Pirlo.

Most of the top clubs in Europe have been linked with the Arsenal captain and speculation has been rife that he will be quitting the Gunners this summer, having refused to extend his contract which expires in 12 months’ time.

Manchester City were believed to be leading the race for the striker, although Roberto Mancini’s interest reportedly cooled and Italian club Juventus looked favourites.

Alongside those two are a whole other host of clubs including Manchester United, Real Madrid and Barcelona.

PSG were also thought to be in the race but Ancelotti’s latest comments have ruled the French club out, despite the player’s apparent availability.

"Robin van Persie is not our target but I think there are a number of other clubs who are interested in him," Ancelotti told a press conference.

The Italian also dismissed any idea that he would be looking to work with Andrea Pirlo again, who he managed at AC Milan.

He added: "Pirlo is an interesting player for any club, but I have had the chance to coach him for eight years and that is enough."