London, Aug 10: The Red Devils quest to reclaim the Premier League crown is easier said than done. The 19-time League champions may need the services of Arsenal's goal machine Robin van Persie after a decent 22,000 miles pre-season tour.

EPL 2012-13 Special

United's tour of South Africa, China, Norway and Sweden did not match the clubs global fame. The Red Devils scored just three goals in five games with two wins, two draws and a loss to Barcelona.

United's strike force of Javier Hernandez, Danny Welbeck, Wayne Rooney and outcast Dimitar Berbatov are yet to find the target as boss Sir Alex Ferguson tries to build a team ahead of the next season and challenge City to reclaim the title.

Ferguson also strengthened his squad by acquiring Japan midfielder Shinji Kagawa and youngster Nick Powell, but United are desperate to sign Van Persie from rivals Arsenal.

Ferguson is determined to sign the Dutch star after his Red Devils failed to score enough during their pre-season tour, a big concern as the League kick-starts in a few weeks. Van Persie topped the charts with 30 Premier League goals last season and United have plotted a 15 million pounds move for the 28-year-old.

However, Van Persie had demanded £220,000-a-week, similar to Wayne Rooney's wages, if United sign him. The Dutch goal machine could start along with Rooney upfront, while Welbeck could lose his spot and settle on the bench along with Chicarito and Dimitar Berbatov.

Meanwhile, Berbatov has been linked with a move to Turkey after falling out of place in Fergie's strike force while Michael Owen has been released as a free agent.

The lethal combination of Rooney-Van Persie can be a nightmare for any defence not only in England but across Europe too. The Dutch international could be United's answer for European glory after a short and disappointing Champions League and Europa League campaign last season.

However, striker Rooney is ready to play alongside Van Persie and said the Dutch stars inclusion would be a 'great addition' to the squad.

"Of course, he's a player that I admire," said Rooney. He's a fantastic player, he's been amazing for Arsenal over many years.

"Last season was probably his best season of all, he scored a lot of goals. If he does come here he would be a great addition to the squad," he added.

United failed to win a single title last season, while rivals City, Liverpool and Chelsea had their hands on trophies. Red Devils' noisy neighbours City have the squad to retain the title and Chelsea have spent huge amounts to develop their squad.

Ferguson may not have the spending power like his rivals but is determined to bring Van Persie to Old Trafford.

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