Benzema To Become A Gunner, Wenger Spoke To Player, Madrid Ready To Sell Him

Arsenal  have submitted an offer to sign Karim Benzema from Real Madrid, according to reports. Benzema is believed to be Arsenal’s top target to fill their vacant number nine shirt this summer, with Arsene Wenger a long-term admirer.

And amid claims that talks have been held over a deal, reports in Spain say Arsenal have now have an offer to bring Benzema to the Emirates. No figures are mentioned, but the offer is likely to be short of his £42million valuation – with Madrid believed to be happy to sell. And it is believed Madrid are open to selling the player if they are able to get their own targets.

The Gunners are now waiting to hear if the bid has been accepted before making their next move. He has scored 20 goals in each of his last five seasons, but Benitez is reportedly planning to use Cristiano Ronaldo as a central striker, which could hamper the Frenchman’s playing time. That formation is likely to be trialled in pre-season, meaning Real are not willing to let Benzema leave until they know for certain he is not required.

El Confidencial journalist Kiko Marin is confident Wenger will step in if he feels a deal can be struck. Wenger believes his side can snatch Benzema in a similar fashion to that of Mesut Özil’s £42m move in 2013.

The German became available late on in the window as Real Madrid signed Gareth Bale, paving the way for his Arsenal move.

Goal report that Wenger is willing to shell out £35m for the former Lyon man, but is also prepared to stick with his guns. Olivier Giroud and Danny Welbeck with Theo Walcott and Alexis Sanchez are fully capable of playing up front, if their interest in Benzema doesn’t pan out.