Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has confirmed he was
interested in Carlos Tevez until Manchester United made their move
for the striker.
The Argentina international joined The Red Devils last summer
following a hugely successful second half of the season with West
Ham.
Although Wenger was keen on bringing Tevez's quality to the
Emirates, he opted against pursuing a deal once United's intent was
confirmed.
With the likes of Robin van Persie and Emmanuel Adebayor set to
start the season following Thierry Henry's exit, Wenger wanted to
give the duo a confidence boost and the chance to impress.
"When I saw Manchester United on the case, I thought no," explained
Wenger. "If they had not been on the case, yes.
"I would have analysed it and looked at how would it go. But it
looked as if they were on the case early.
"However, I knew I had (Robin) Van Persie and Adebayor to play at
the start. I wanted to give them confidence.
"Then I had (Nicklas) Bendtner behind and I wanted to give him
confidence. [In the end] I looked for a player like Eduardo, who
can play left wing, right or central."
Investigate
Meanwhile, Wenger wants to investigate whether there was a chance
Adebayor could have left Arsenal last season for The Red
Devils.
The French boss has confirmed no approach from Old Trafford was
ever made for the 23-year-old Togo striker, who only extended his
contract with the club back in May.
"I would first like to check that it's true," he continued.
"If it's not Adebayor, I think it's his agent. He had a contract at
that time as well, anyway, and I have never been approached by
Manchester United.
"He has extended his contract here since then."