Wenger says Martial cost United 80m Euros, laments lack of transfer availability

Arsene Wenger has cited Manchester United’s signing of Anthony Martial as an example of a stagnant transfer market. The manager believes that the number of available players who would strengthen top clubs is at a minimum, which explains United’s hefty investment in an unproven youth player.

Martial became the most expensive teenager in history, with an initial sum of £36m before add ons, and Wenger says he was told the deal could rise to as much as £59m (80m Euros).

The boss has faced increased pressure from some sections of Arsenal supporters after no new signing was made yesterday, and Wenger says the Martial transfer proves just how difficult it is.

“What happened last night with Monaco, who sold Martial to Manchester United for 80million Euros, I’ve heard… Martial scored 11 goals in the French championship – that sums it up well,” he said as quoted by Sky Sports.

“That means it’s not the money that’s missing at the moment, it’s not the desire of investment that is missing, it’s the number of players available who can strengthen the big clubs.”

“The problem at the moment is finding the players that guarantees you are a better team after, and that example last night shows you very well.”

“Martial is a huge talent – he’s 19 years old. The investment is absolutely huge as well. It shows you that there’s not many players in the world who can strengthen these teams.”

Considering the player is still awaiting his first full cap for France (which could come this weekend), you would have to say Wenger has a point. For those who have expressed their frustration at no new signings, some perspective is needed.

I do believe Wenger actively sought and searched for transfer targets, but was unlucky not to strike a deal. Big clubs are often reluctant to sell their star players for obvious reasons, especially so late in the window when there is little time to replace them. As for the player himself, he may feel he is placed perfectly where he is, particularly if he is first choice in the XI and always on the score sheet.

It is not all doom and gloom at Arsenal as some would have you believe, and its best we no focus on the road ahead and the players who are already available.