Exclusive – Arsenal must splash the cash to compete, claims former Gunner

John Hartson believes Arsenal must start competing with Europe’s top clubs for the world’s best talent if they’re to win the Premier League title next season.

The Gunners have been known for advocating youth progression, rather than big-money signings, in recent years but have won just one FA Cup in the last 10 seasons, while Chelsea’s free-spending approach has seen the west London club lift 11 major trophies in the same space of time.

Last summer saw the arrivals of Alexis Sanchez, Danny Welbeck and Calum Chambers for a combined cost of around £67million, as Arsene Wenger appeared to lighten his grip on the club’s purse strings.

The Frenchman has been linked with moves for Southampton’s Morgan Schneiderlin, along with Juventus’ Alvaro Morata and Palermo starlet Paulo Dybala this summer.

And ex-striker Hartson insists Wenger must splash the cash if Arsenal are to launch a serious title challenge next season.

“Arsenal have to keep investing,” he told the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast show. “They have invested heavily last summer and bought the likes of Alexis Sanchez, Calum Chambers and Danny Welbeck.

“Arsene Wenger has to keep getting the funds because other teams are investing too.

“Arsenal are not stronger than Chelsea right now, they have to keep Arsene Wenger at the club and keep spending money.

“For Arsenal to challenge Chelsea they need to start going in for the big players that are available.”