Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood, who once said of Stan Kroenke "we don't need his money and we don't want his sort", has delivered the American to the brink of a formal takeover of the north London club.

The Denver-based sports magnate has acquired another 200 shares to control 29.9% of the club - just short of the 29.99% mark beyond which he would be forced to make an offer for the remaining shares.

Asked if he thought it was significant that it was Hill-Wood who had sold the latest batch of shares to Kroenke, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger agreed but added: "A takeover is certainly not inevitable."

Much has been made of just what Kroenke - nicknamed 'Silent Stan' for his aversion to the media spotlight - may have in mind for the Gunners.

However, manager Wenger maintained: "Without any doubt he is interested in football and Arsenal.

"It can have both a positive and a negative influence, that is the same with every owner.

"As to what his ambitions and goals are, I do not know. He can answer that question better than me."

Wenger added: "He is at 29.9%, so he is not yet in a position where is has to make a bid, so the situation at the club does not change."

The Arsenal boss insists he remains focussed on the job in hand with the team, rather than what may be going on 'above' in the Emirates Stadium boardroom.

"I take care of what is under my responsibility - that means the team, the way we play, the results and our next game. All the rest is a little bit above my head," said Wenger.