Wenger - Takeover not inevitable

Kroenke: Edges closer to takeover

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Arsene Wenger does not believe a takeover from major shareholder Stan Kroenke is inevitable, despite the American taking his stake to 29.9 per cent.

Kroenke's latest movements take him to within touching distance of the 29.99 per cent threshold that would enable him to make a bid for the remaining shares.

The American sports magnate has remained silent over his intentions, but having purchased 100 shares from Gunners chairman Peter Hill-Wood early on Thursday it appears a takeover bid is just around the corner.

Kroenke, who owns NBA side Denver Nuggets, MLS team Colorado Rapids and NHL outfit Colorado Avalanche, is rumoured to be looking to sell his 40 per cent stake in American Football franchise St Louis Rams, further fuelling the takeover talk in North London.

However, Wenger stated: "No [it is not] inevitable, certainly not, 29.9 per cent I have heard he has now.

"He is not in a position to make a bid so the position does not change at the club.

"Basically not a lot [changes] because the situation remains exactly the same as before and I do not want to comment too much on that."

Focusing on the team

Wenger admitted that he had spoken to Kroenke but he preferred to stay out of such affairs as he concentrates on matters on the field.

"I have spoken to all the shareholders and don't see any reason why I shouldn't," he added.

"I care and worry about my plans and I see that like floors, they [shareholders] are above my head and I look downwards to the team and I take responsibility for the team and results and how we play and our next game so the rest is above my head."

The Gunners boss also revealed that he had thought about investing in shares in the club himself in the past but eventually thought against it.

"Yes I thought about it but [I pulled out] because I felt I always try to do the job with good work ethic and not to be accused of any decision being for my personal interest," he pointed out.

"I always thought it would be healthier if I wasn't involved at all so that I cannot be accused, whatever decision I make, of looking after my own interests."