Football
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Arsenal transfer policy must be reviewed after 'disappointing' window

The Arsenal Supporters' Trust (AST) has called on the Premier League club to carry out a "full review" of recruitment policy following a summer that saw them sign just one first-team player.

The Gunners kicked off the transfer window with the signing of Petr Cech from Chelsea for £11 million, but the goalkeeper proved to be the only new arrival at the club, meaning they were the only side in Europe's top five leagues not to recruit an outfield player.

Despite being linked with big names such as Karim Benzema and Edinson Cavani, Arsenal supporters -- who are said to be charged the most expensive ticket prices in the country -- were ultimately left disappointed not to see their team bring in a new striker or defensive midfielder as had been hoped for.

"Arsenal are in a strong financial position and it is of course disappointing that [the] transfer window has closed with just the signing of Petr Cech," the AST said in a statement posted on its Twitter account.

"Arsenal have built a strong squad and just one or two more good additions would have strengthened the chances of winning a first title in 11 years.

"No one wants Arsenal to buy players just for the sake of it, but we do want to see the money being invested to make the club stronger.

"This isn't an issue that affects just one transfer window and seems to indicate a wider structural issue. We urge the board to now open a full review into its arrangements for scouting and purchasing players.

"A review of this type is a good governance practice and can only help Arsenal to become a stronger club. The AST will be raising this with the Arsenal board."

Despite having had to budget following their move to the Emirates Stadium in 2006, Arsenal have had more money to spend in recent years.

The Gunners splashed out £42.5m on Mesut Ozil from Real Madrid in 2013, while Alexis Sanchez was signed from Barcelona in 2014 for £35m.

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