The 28-year-old had confirmed earlier on Wednesday that discussions with manager Arsene Wenger and chief executive Ivan Gazidis had not gone as planned, with both parties sharing differing views on how the club should move forward.

However, Arsenal remain hopeful their captain, who netted 37 goals in 48 appearances in all competitions last season, will see out the remaining year of his contract instead of moving on in this transfer window.

A club statement read: "We have to respect Robin's decision not to renew his contract.

"Robin has one year to run on his current contract and we are confident that he will fulfil his commitments to the club.

"We are planning with ambition and confidence for next season with Arsenal's best interests in mind."

Wenger has already bolstered his striking options with the signings of Lukas Podolski and Olivier Giroud, from Cologne and Montpellier respectively.

However, the loss of their talisman would be a major blow as the club attempt to keep within touching distance of the English Premier League's title-challenging sides.