ARSENAL are the target of a £450million take-over bid from Sheikh Mohammed.
The world's fifth-richest man is said to have earmarked Gunners after being snubbed by Liverpool this week in favour of American investment.
Far from being put off English football, the Sheikh has instructed Dubai International Capital, the investment arm of his empire, to come up with a suitable club for him to break into English football.
And now the deal-brokers have targeted Arsenal as a ripe opportunity.
Gunners already have close links with Dubai through their massive sponsorship deal with Emirates, and DIC see the Gunners as the perfect vehicle for Sheikh Mohammed. Unlike Liverpool, the Arsenal board are not touting for a take-over but there is an awareness that to compete with the likes of Chelsea and Manchester United they need a major cash injection.
Arsenal shares currently trade at £4,900, with the club also carrying what is described as a "major but manageable" debt following the completion of their new ground.
And they are a hugely attractive proposition because of a guaranteed 60,000 sell-out crowd and the state-of the- art facilities at the Emirates Stadium. Just as importantly, Arsene Wenger's team play the style of attractive football that has impressed Sheikh Mohammed.
A source close to the Gunners board said: "There has been a series of talks about the future of the club and how they need to plan carefully.
"Investment is the key to that. The stadium and the team is in place but there have to be safeguards to ensure the club can compete with Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool."
I dont mind the money part but if hes like Roman then i dont want him. Wenger should be left to do his job and not interfered with. If they are only here to invest money and dont demand instant success then im all for it but i dont want us to become another Chelsea.
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