John Hartson: 'Arsenal still way behind rivals'

Former Arsenal forward John Hartson has claimed that the Gunners are still "way behind" their rivals in the transfer market.

Stephan Lichtsteiner, Matteo Guendouzi, Sokratis, Bernd Leno and Lucas Torreira have all arrived at the Emirates Stadium this summer, with Unai Emery making moves to improve his squad.

Hartson, however, has said that his former side are still currently unable to compete for the best players in the world following a difficult period.

"Arsenal fans are going to have to be patient for a couple of seasons, not demanding such success because I believe they're still way behind in the market for the best players in the world, I really do," Hartson told the Daily Star.

"I think I share a lot of opinions even with their own fans. But they've appointed Emery, he's got a very impressive CV behind him in terms of the Europa League. I think they need to be a bit patient with him and I believe in time he's got the capabilities if he's given the funds to add to the group they've got.

"But they're still a long way from signing the best players in the world, as when they come up, when the best players in the world become available, they're never in for them. They're never in for them.

"Why aren't they in for [Eden] Hazard? Why aren't they in for Willian? Why aren't they in for these big players that would probably cost £80m? I don't think they're prepared to go there."

Arsenal will continue their pre-season preparations with a clash against Atletico Madrid on July 26.