Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has hit back at claims that he is not prepared to spend money on players by admitting that he is willing to take a "gamble".
The 61-year-old has come under fire after so far failing to make an impact in the transfer window following the departure of captain Cesc Fabregas to Barcelona.
The Gunners were reportedly closing in on a move for Spaniard Juan Mata but fell at the last hurdle, and now Premier League rivals Chelsea have agreed a fee with Valencia for the 23-year-old.
"We are never afraid to take a gamble," Wenger told the club's official website. "But to buy a player is always a gamble anyway.
"Overall we will buy. Maybe people feel I am stubborn, but I am not, I just want to do the best for the team and buy the right players."
"If I have shown one thing in the last 15 years, it is that I have brought in good players. "
The Gunners boss has insisted that the London club will add experience to the squad to accompany the youngsters they have brought through.
"We will bring as well experienced players," he added. "People just say 'buy' but it is to buy the right player which is difficult."
Meanwhile, Arsenal travel to Italy to face Udinese tomorrow (Wednesday) in a bid to qualify for the group stage of the Champions League.
Danielle Joynson
