Brentford boss Thomas Frank believes players in the Championship are “too expensive”.
It comes as the Bees continue to chase the signing of Nottingham Forest youngster Brennan Johnson.
Reports suggest Forest are holding out for £18m for the promising 20-year-old, who is rated as an excellent prospect.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Frank was asked if his club were primarily looking at the Championship for potential new signings.
“It doesn’t have to be the Championship or England. It can be Europe. It doesn’t matter,” said Frank.
“I think actually the Championship is too expensive, if you ask me. I think we pay too much for the quality of players that you’d probably get in Europe.”
Frank is hoping to add to his squad during this month’s transfer window but insists new arrivals are not essential to his team’s chances of Premier League survival.
“I said it before the season and also at the beginning of this transfer window, I think we have a strong enough squad to compete in the Premier League,” he said.
“I think we showed that last night (against Manchester United). The first 60 minutes were absolutely amazing and it showed what this group of players are capable of.
“I do think a player or two would bring energy and extra awareness to the squad but I don’t think it’s essential. Not at all.
“We always prepare. We are always in the market. If we can find the right player for the right position with the right character, then we’ll do it.”