10 Most Controversial Transfers Of The Premier League Era

6. Robin van Persie To Man Utd

In 2012, and having seen a succession of players jump ship for direct rivals, Arsenal fans were left fuming when Robin van Persie became the latest in a growing line of stars to turn their back on Emirates Stadium. Having already watched on helplessly while the likes of Emmanuel Adebayor, Gael Clichy and Samir Nasri left in controversial circumstances, van Persie's exit was too much to bear for some fans. Supporters accused the Dutchman of letting the club down when they needed him most. Van Persie was carrying the Gunners on his own back in 2011-12, scoring 30 league goals in 38 appearances, but questioned the club's ambition after letting a number of stars go and announced he wanted to leave. "For Arsenal to have one of their players go to their biggest rivals of the last 20 years doesn't sit well with their fans, nor Arsene for that matter," said Sir Alex Ferguson a year after the transfer. It was true. Arsenal fans booed RVP whenever the Gunners took on United, and have never forgiven him his move.