Spotify CEO and co-founder Daniel Ek is preparing to open discussions with Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke over buying the club, according to reports.
Thousands of Arsenal supporters engaged in protests against Kroenke at the Emirates before Friday’s Premier League 1-0 defeat against Everton.
Fans were venting their frustrations over the American billionaire’s running of the gunners in the wake of Arsenal’s plot to enter the Super League, which they ultimately withdrew their support from after widespread backlash.
During Friday’s protests, Ek – a Swedish entrepreneur estimated by Forbes to be worth £3.4bn – posted on Twitter that he is open to buying Arsenal should KSE be looking to sell.
‘As a kid growing up, I’ve cheered for @Arsenal as long as I can remember,’ Ek wrote. ‘If KSE would like to sell Arsenal I’d be happy to throw my hat in the ring.’
According to Telegraph Sport, the Spotify CEO’s interest is genuine and he is ready to open negotiations with Kroenke over a possible takeover bid.
Despite Arsenal director Josh Kroenke – the son of Stan – saying on Thursday that KSE are not interested in selling the club, the Telegraph claim that an offer of around £2bn may tempt them.
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Arsenal supporters’ protests on Friday have been backed by the club legend Ian Wright, who doesn’t believe that KSE are fit to run, or own the London club.
‘I stand with them,’ Wright told Dazn. ‘I made it clear what I think about the owner. I think they’re right to be outside there.
‘The statement from the manager as well, fans have every right to be out there saying what they’re saying.‘
‘KSE are not fit, for me, not fit to run the club, not fit to own the club. We’ve heard Josh Kroenke saying they’re not selling the club – and I wouldn’t expect them to, it’s a massive cash cow for them.’
