The Gunners and Red Devils approved the deal - thought to be worth around £20million - on Wednesday, with Van Persie expected to undergo a medical and finalise personal terms by Friday.

"He is at Manchester United, unfortunately for us. The transfer was finalised in the afternoon," said Wenger whilst working for French TV station TF1.

"It's never great to lose players of that quality but he only had a year contract so we do not have a choice."

Wenger is, however, confident, the recent signings of Olivier Giroud and Lukas Podolski will help ease the Dutchman's exit.

"We have already recruited since we signed Giroud and Podolski who originally were intended to offset the departure of Van Persie," he concluded.

Van Persie scored 37 goals in all competitions last season, seeing him secure both the PFA and FWA Player of the Season awards.