Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis has warned supporters that Arsene Wenger will not spend "irrational" sums of money as he searches for a new striker in the transfer window, despite reports linking the club with a number of high-profile figures.

Wenger has made no secret of the fact that with Robin van Persie a long-term injury victim and Nicklas Bendtner also suffering from fitness problems, a new striker is a priority for a club that is traditionally reluctant to spend substantial funds on incoming players.

Arsenal have used the January transfer window to their advantage on occasions though, with Theo Walcott, Emmanuel Adebayor and Andrei Arshavin all strengthening the squad in mid-season in recent years.

Expectations of a big-name arrival have only grown following recent claims that both Real Madrid forward Gonzalo Higuain and Lazio's Mauro Zarate, valued at £31 million and £36 million respectively, are both on Wenger's wish-list.

But Gazidis expects Wenger to retain his prudent approach, despite the burning necessity for Arsenal to strengthen their attacking options as they seek to maintain their Premier League title challenge.

"We won't be making moves to respond to short-term pressure and we won't spend irrational amounts of money," Gazidis told Sky Sports News. "But if we can find the right player that can add real quality to the squad, of course we'll make the right move.

"We're in a good position, but the thing to always bear in mind is spending money by giving it to other clubs for the talent they have, is not necessarily the answer to all issues."

Gazidis also denied speculation linking captain Cesc Fabregas with a move to Barcelona or Real Madrid, blaming the renewed transfer talk on upcoming elections at the Catalan club. Wenger is also expected to sign a new contract soon in a "very amicable, quick agreement."

"It would be a dream for me to get to play on a team so great," the 19 year old is quoted. "I have a chance there because Arsene Wenger relies heavily on young players. "There is great pressure on me now because I am being linked with big European clubs, but this is my ambition. "The Ivory Coast coach has already told me I will get my chance with the national team, but my chances of that happening would certainly increase if I was to join a big team like Arsenal. "It is sensational to hear Wenger is watching me. I could be a success in England. "Even though I am still young, I have a lot of experience and a lot of ambition. Wherever I go it will be hard at first, but I'm sure I would settle in." Traore's current employers Cluj have confirmed initial discussions have already taken place with the Gunners and they have told the Premier League side of their asking price. Club president Iuliu Muresan added: "We have had contact from Arsenal but we have not received a concrete offer yet. "Four million euros is close to the amount we are seeking."