Arsenal have been infuriated by Roberto Mancini's decision to go public with his quest to land Robin van Persie.
And Gunners officials are on red-alert to ensure Manchester City do not overstep the mark in their pursuit.
After months of speculation, the Manchester City manager declared his interest in the Holland striker on Wednesday night.
Target RVP: Roberto Mancini admits Manchester City want Robin van Persie
But his move to make an open declaration over his effort to land Van Persie next summer has not been met too kindly at the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal chiefs - including Arsene Wenger - are furious at what they see as City's blatant attempts to unsettle Van Persie ahead of a pivotal summer.
Arsenal know City can offer Van Persie more money - with the Etihad Stadium club prepared to pay the striker £220,000-per-week over four years.
The Gunners are now keeping a watchful eye on City's movements regarding their interest in Van Persie and could threaten legal action if they feel the Manchester club have contravened FA and Premier League transfer regulations.
Old wounds: City tempted Samir Nasri (third right) from Arsenal last summer
Arsenal's anger could make for an interesting Wenger press conference at the club's London Colney HQ on Friday afternoon.
City have angered Wenger hugely in the past due to their pursuits of Emmanuel Adebayor, Gael Clichy and Samir Nasri
And Mancini's comments on Wednesday night have only fueled the Frenchman's ill-feeling towards City. There is a similar anxiety within the Gunners board regarding Real Madrid's interest in Van Persie. Spanish newspaper Marca - which is widely recognized as a mouthpiece for Real - have reported Van Persie as a prime target for Jose Mourinho in the summer.
And the Gunners are taking a similar watching brief with regards to the Spanish club's interest.
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