Istanbul giants Fenerbahce on Thursday confirmed they were in talks to sign Dutch international striker Robin van Persie from Manchester United.

"Talks have started with the club and the player himself over the transfer of Robin van Persie," Fenerbahce said in a statement, giving no further details.

The statement came amid heightening speculation that the singing of Van Persie could come in the next days, after Fenerbahce sporting director Giuliano Terraneo flew to England to hold personal talks with the player.

Portuguese star Nani on Monday joined Fenerbahce from United for six million euros (£4.26m, $6.7m) as last season's Super Lig runners up seek to add a glittering array of foreign talent to their ranks for the new season.