Arsène Wenger today suggested Manchester United paid £10 million sterling too much for Rio Ferdinand following the England centre-back's £30 million move from Leeds.
Arsenal's French boss admitted he would have liked to have had Ferdinand lining up in the Gunners' defence for the forthcoming season But he believes the Old Trafford giants have smashed the British transfer record on a player worth only £20 million.
Wenger said: "They have bought a great player but they have paid a high price for him. I'd like to sign Rio Ferdinand - but for £10 million less.
"But I'm not surprised United have the most expensive players in Britain, as that reflects their financial strength. When you have a lot of money in your pocket you buy expensive. And that's what they have done".
Wenger claimed his all-conquering team of last season have yet to peak. "I don't think the team we have now has reached its full potential," he told the London Evening Standard.
Wenger also confirmed the Gunners plan to raid the transfer market in the next month for a midfielder. PA