Arsene Wenger has defended Ivan Gazidis after the CEO’s ambition in the transfer market was questioned by supporters following his claim that Arsenal would struggle to outmuscle their rivals if drawn into bidding wars for new players.

While confirming earlier this week that the Gunners still have business to do, Gazidis preached financial parsimony and smart-thinking despite the big-money spending of the likes of Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea.

“I work every day with Ivan, believe me he is highly motivated to bring players in,” said Wenger ahead of tonight’s friendly with Chivas de Guadalajara.

“Sometimes I have to calm him down. I believe as well this is a period where everybody wants to dream, and transfers bring dreams.

“But we live in a realistic world and part of our job is as well to rate the players we have inside the club. One of the values of our club is to give chances to players who deserve it.”

Arsenal have signed Granit Xhaka, Takuma Asano and Rob Holding so far this summer but are still actively looking for new recruits both in attack in defence.

Last night the Gunners were linked with West Brom’s Jonny Evans…now, if this is the kind of zany, wacky, crazy stuff Gazidis is waving in the boss’ face than we’re more than happy for Arsene to calm him down.* Possibly with a baseball bat.

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*We don’t for one moment believe Gazidis thinks signing a dud ex-Manchester United player is a good idea.