Transfer Centre

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger: 'Transfer spending starts now'

By Danielle Joynson, Staff Reporter | 22 August 2013

Arsene Wenger says that summer spending "starts now" following their failure to sign big-name targets during the earlier stages of the transfer window.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has suggested that there could be a flurry of players moving to the Emirates in the next 11 days by stating that the transfer window "starts now".

The North London outfit has come under criticism from supporters for failing to so far land big-name targets, including Gonzalo Higuain and Luiz Gustavo, who both opted for moves elsewhere despite interest from the Gunners.

"You have to understand there is still a long way to go," Wenger said in a press conference. "The transfer market starts for me now and a lot of activity will happen between now and September 2.

"From August 21 until September 2 you have 12 days, so a lot will happen. It starts now. It is like a poker game. People hold their cards as long as possible and see what is happening out there. In the end, they go for decisions."

Wenger, who oversaw his side defeat Fenerbahce 3-0 in the first leg of a Champions League qualifier last night, has been linked with swoops for Real Madrid pair Karim Benzema and Angel di Maria.

The Frenchman has also admitted that there is "no chance" of the club signing former target Luis Suarez from Liverpool.