Arsenal legend Martin Keown has told talkSPORT it is ‘astonishing’ manager Unai Emery has been told he can only sign players on loan in the January transfer window.
The Gunners boss wants to strengthen after seeing the team’s form nosedive after going 22 games unbeaten in all competitions before Christmas.
Arsenal have won just two league games since their impressive run of results was ended with a 3-2 defeat to Southampton on December 16.
However, it has been claimed the boss will only be allowed to make permanent signings this month if he first gets Mesut Ozil off their wage bill.
Ozil has fallen out of favour this season amid concerns over his attitude, and the club are said to be listening to offers for their highest earning player.
But former defender Keown has admitted his surprise at the club’s frugality.
“It’s a very weird situation at Arsenal,” he told Thursday’s Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast.
“For the club to say they’re only allowed to loan players…
“This is the sixth-wealthiest club in the world! And we can’t buy a player in this transfer window?
“I think that’s astonishing!”
Ozil was conspicuous by his absence as Arsenal suffered a 1-0 defeat against West Ham at the weekend.
The German playmaker has missed a number of games this season and was again not selected for the match day squad against the Hammers, leading to further claims he could be on his way out.
Asked about Ozil’s future at the Emirates Stadium, Keown added: “I think Unai Emery is trying to work with Ozil.
“People are now saying they want more creativity, but first of all he has to work and be prepared to work to the ethic the manager has.
“And I just don’t think Ozil wants to do that at the moment.”