'When did Arsenal become Manchester City's feeder club?' - Gunners legend Ian Wright hits out at Arsene Wenger's transfer activity

Former England international cannot see how the club can attract star players if Fabregas and Nasri leave, and calls on manager to sign likes of Essien, Hart and Kompany

By Matt Scott

7 Jul 2011 07:45:00

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Ian Wright has spoken of his dismay at Arsenal's transfer dealings this summer after Gael Clichy left for Manchester City.

Samir Nasri could also be set to leave the club this summer after being linked with moves to Premier League rivals City, Manchester United and Chelsea, while Barcelona are said to have made an improved offer for captain Cesc Fabregas.

Arsenal legend Wright, who scored 185 goals for the club, says Arsene Wenger's side will struggle to attract "top players" if more stars leave the Emirates.

Writing in his column for The Sun, Wright said: "Gael Clichy's move to Manchester City wouldn't bother me much in normal circumstances as Kieran Gibbs is coming through nicely.

"But now it looks like Samir Nasri is set to join him.
"Since when did Arsenal become Manchester City's feeder club?
"With Cesc Fabregas looking a goner to Barcelona too, it's very, very sad to see. How on earth will Arsene Wenger attract any top players to Arsenal?
"It's come to something when a player like Clichy feels Arsenal is not good enough for him anymore. He can see that Man City is going to be challenging for top trophies next season.
"Arsenal are being left behind. And the trouble is, when all the top-class players have gone, it becomes extremely difficult to lure other top players to your club.
"Wenger has put his faith in picking up little gems from abroad, little-known players who he can nurture and develop.
"I'd love to see Wenger being given the same sort of transfer pot that the likes of Chelsea will get. The same backing Alex Ferguson enjoys at Manchester United.
"But I have my suspicions that he would still dither about, take too long to make up his mind and then plump for someone in France or Spain hardly any of us have ever heard of.
"Wenger is still the right man for the job but he needs proper backing and I do feel that sometimes he needs a good shaking."
Wright also highlighted some signings he believes Wenger should make, suggesting that Michael Essien, Joe Hart and Vincent Kompany would be great additions to the Arsenal squad.

"What I'd like to see are some bullish signings," he added.
"Go out and chase the likes of Michael Essien. Get him back on top form and he's a fabulous player.
"Then go for keeper Joe Hart and Vincent Kompany and get your own back on Manchester City.
"Make the rest of English football sit up and take notice for once - not just Arsenal fans who can see the lights going out on their club."