Wenger: It's lose-lose if Chelsea signs Rooney

The Arsenal boss is an admirer of the England international and feels he has the ability to make any of the Gunners' rivals for the title even stronger this season.

Arsene Wenger believes it will be just as difficult for Arsenal next season if Wayne Rooney leaves Manchester United for Chelsea.

The Blues have made Rooney their primary transfer target this summer but saw an improved bid rejected by the Premier League champion on Sunday, which is understood to have been worth around 30 million pounds.

Wenger feels a potential departure for Rooney will have no impact on his team as Chelsea is already one of the strongest outfits in the division.

"With Rooney, [Chelsea] will be even more dangerous for sure," the Frenchman told Al Jazeera Sport. "I rate Rooney highly and unfortunately we fight with Manchester United and Chelsea.

"So, on one front, if he goes then Manchester United will be weaker, that's quite good for us. But if he changes to Chelsea then they will be stronger - which is not good for us."

David Moyes has continually insisted that the 27-year-old will not be sold this summer despite the player's desire for a fresh start after nine years at the club and the new United manager does not think he will have to convince Rooney to stay, despite the continued interest from Jose Mourinho at Stamford Bridge.