Could Arsenal follow the likes of Manchester United and be taken over by an American company?  Although the major shareholders of the Premiership club have no intention of selling up, broadcaster ITV are likely to be open to offers for their 9.9 per cent stake in the Gunners. Arsenal's parent company, listed on the alternative Plus market, currently stands at around £404million, a significant outlay for any potential investor.

US billionaire Stan Kroenke had been widely reported to be interested in acquiring the shares. His company, Kroenke Sports Enterprise, already have an 'innovative strategic relationship' with the north London club through Major League Soccer team Colorado Rapids, and the group have a large portfolio of sports-related interests across the Atlantic.

However, any suggestions this would now be followed by KSE taking a financial stake in Arsenal have been quickly dismissed. Soccernet reported the following: "Kroenke Sports Enterprise have 'no interest or intention' of buying into Arsenal, according to a spokesman for the American company."

The agreement in place at the moment between the two clubs is primarily designed to help develop the Gunners' brand in America, and will also see an exchange of coaching as well as commercial ideologies, with an inaugural Arsenal Cup to be held for US clubs by the Rapids this summer.

Jeff Plush, managing director of the MLS outfit, was in London recently as part of a pre-season trip to Europe, which also included a visit to Valencia in Spain. He said: 'We can certainly give to Arsenal some of our expertise in sports marketing - we own five teams, a television network and four venues. With them, we are frankly a more credible football club than we were."

Even though KSE are distancing themselves from any talk of a potential takeover, it was inevitable interest in Arsenal would surface sooner rather than later. With a strong tradition, established fan base and a young side, buying into the Gunners would certainly make an attractive proposition.

The above speculation is very similar to the rumours flying around before the Chelsea and Manchester United takeovers. It's always done in such a way to prevent our share prices from shooting sky high.  Personally, I think a takeover would be good. It would free up money for Arsene Wenger to buy some experienced and established players

It can only be good news if we have the funds to battle the other big theee. Then at least we are fighting on equal grounds. At the moment  we are able commandos with pistols. We need machine guns and cannons to fight for the title.

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