Gunners growth paid for Ozil

Arsenal have reported a rise in turnover and say their new commercial muscle was a significant factor in the signing of Mesut Ozil for a club record £42.5 million (€50m) fee.

Despite reduced profits due to a drop in income from player sales and an increase in players’ wages, Arsenal saw overall turnover rise to £242.8m (€288.6m) in the year ending May 31 2013 from £235.3m (€279.7m) the previous year.

Commercial and retail revenue rose 20% to £62m (€73.7m), boosted by the new sponsorship deal with Emirates airline.