Arsenal line up Spanish striker Llorente as replacement for unsettled Van Persie.

Arsenal will pursue a move for Atletic Bilbao striker Fernando Llorente if Robin van Persie leaves this summer.

Manager Arsene Wenger wants a quick resolution to the Van Persie saga so he can either prepare for the new season with the Dutchman in his plans or have enough time to find a replacement.

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And Sportsmail understands Wenger and his scouting team have spoken at depth about a move for Spain forward Llorente should their talisman leave.

 

The 27-year-old - who scored 28 goals for Bilbao last season - has a £28million release clause written into his contract.

And Wenger would use the £20m-plus from Van Persie's sale in his attempt to lure the striker.

At 6ft 5ins, Wenger believes Llorente has the physical attributes and ability on the ball to deal with the rigours of English football.

But whether Bilbao would be willing to negotiate a deal below his hefty release clause remains unclear.

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In addition to Llorente, Fiorentina Stevan Jovetic and Borussia Dortmund's Robert Lewandowski have also been discussed as possible replacements for Van Persie.

The future of the Holland international will become significantly clearer on Saturday as the club decide whether he will travel on their tour of south-east Asia.

Arsenal have been adamant their captain will make the trip to Malaysia on Saturday, but club sources have told Sportsmail that Van Persie being left behind is an option being considered by the club.

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The Gunners will play hardball with Manchester City, Manchester United and Juventus by demanding £20m for the striker.

But the notion of Van Persie not boarding the plane would surely signal the beginning of the end of his Gunners career.