Arteta doesn't expect van Persie to leave Arsenal

The Dutchman has been in scintillating form this season, with 23 goals to his name already, including hat-tricks against Blackburn and London rivals Chelsea. Such fperformances have attracted attention from across the continent, with Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid rumoured to be interested in the 28-year-old. However, teammate Arteta is adamant the Dutchman is undeterred by the rumours and will remain at the Emirates. "I do not see Van Persie leaving Arsenal," Arteta told COM Radio. "He is completely unaffected by interest from Real Madrid and Barcelona and not thinking about his contract renewal either. "Now he is very calm and is not nervous about anything. I know he has said that in the summer he will consider things, talk it over and take the decision that he will take." Arteta’s arrival at the Emirates coincided with the departure of fellow ex-Barcelona youngster Cesc Fabregas. Despite the similarities between the two, Arteta insists he does not want to be seen as Fabregas’ replacement, however he does concede he would love to line up alongside him for the Spanish national team. "I do not want to be Cesc's substitute and I have no thoughts like that," he continued. "My dream and aim is to win a big trophy for the club and to play for Spain. I would have loved to have had the chance to play for Spain, but I have not yet and I hope that someday that will change." Arteta left Barcelona aged just 20 as he moved to Rangers in search of first-team football. Now 29, the Spaniard admits he often ponders how his career would have turned out at the Catalan club, but insists he is proud to have played for Barcelona. "I have always wondered if I could have made it in the Barca first team. That is very difficult though and a limited option. To reach the team is not so tough, but staying there is," he added. "When I left I knew what I was doing. Pep [Guardiola] was still in the first team, Xavi hardly played and I know that it would be a long and difficult time waiting for a chance. "That is why I decided to take the decision to leave. I am very proud to have been at Barcelona though."