The pursuit of Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez by Arsenal and Arsène Wenger faced a firm stance from Liverpool’s president, American businessman John W. Henry. Despite Arsenal’s efforts and a reported offer of more than £40 million (€46 million), Henry made it clear that Suarez would not be sold to Arsenal or any foreign club.
In a statement, Henry emphasized, “We are not going to sell Luis. I say this unequivocally: we will not sell him to Arsenal whatever the amount of their offer (…) And we will not sell him to a foreign club because we do not have time to find a replacement for him.” Henry highlighted the significance of not selling Suarez to a rival club, particularly with Liverpool not participating in European competitions that year.
Luis Suarez, who had joined Liverpool in 2011, reportedly had a release clause in his contract that allowed him to leave if a club offered more than £40 million. Despite Arsenal meeting this valuation, Liverpool’s president remained resolute in retaining Suarez’s services.
