Stan Kroenke, the American businessmen, has taken his shareholding in Arsenal closer to the 30 per cent mark that would oblige him to make an offer for the club.

Kroenke, who also owns the Colorado Rapids MLS franchise, has secured another 160 shares in the club. That takes his shareholding - the largest individual stake in the club - to 28.58 per cent. According to sources at the club, the American has no interest in mounting a takeover bid, but would be legally obliged to make an offer for all remaining shares should he take control of another 1.42 per cent.

• Arsenal FC: The world’s 21st most valuable sports property

Kroenke has paid around US$13,700 per share for his latest acquisition - a sharp increase on the US$10,300 per share he paid earlier in the year. His latest investment has set him back a total of US$2.19 million.