Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has warned Tottenham Hotspur it risks losing star players because of its relatively small budget compared to the Premier League's financial elite.

Tottenham remains in the hunt for the Premier League title ahead of Monday's north London derby against Arsenal, while it is set for another UEFA Champions League campaign in 2017-2018.

However, Wenger believes it will be difficult for Spurs to maintain their challenge over the years because of the club's wage structure, with the likes of Harry Kane and Dele Alli able to earn more money elsewhere.

"For a longer time, if the budget is too much different, it's impossible," he said.

"When you get to a level, at some stage the best players want to be paid like the other players at that level.

"If the differential is too big, you're never able to keep your best players."

Tottenham, which is second behind Premier League leader Chelsea, is set to finish above Arsenal for the first time since Wenger took charge in 1996.

Spurs are four points adrift of Chelsea and 14 clear of Arsenal.