Alisher Usmanov fears the “pinnacle” of Arsenal’s ambitions next season will be just securing Champions League qualification again, as the Gunners face up to the prospect of seeing captain Robin van Persie leave.

Arsenal’s second-largest shareholders have vowed to continue to “do what is necessary” to make sure the club matches the ambitions “marquee players” to retain talents like wantaway captain Robin van Persie.

Arsenal's second-largest shareholders have written an open letter to the board expressing "deep reservations" over the direction of the club in the wake of captain Robin van Persie deciding against extending his contract.