As a Southampton fan I would say that we needed to spend a decent amount when we were promoted, however with the amount of money coming in from television it is unsurprising that English [and of course Welsh] teams can pay more for players than most teams. I would rather we brought in a few quality players than doing a QPR with the associated wages. Southampton have also invested in their academy and developed a number of their own players many of whom have gone for a decent profit like Oxlade-Chamberlain. Also some of our best purchases have been cheap players such as Clyne. As for Stoke I think you really need a striker that will get you 15 a season. Good luck .