Arsenal are set to turn their attentions to Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema in their search for a new first-choice striker. Despite the fact Real Madrid have a
shortage of recognised centre-forwards, manager Carlo Ancelotti will
consider selling the France international. And the north London club have held high-level discussions with regards to a move for the striker. Wanted man: Real Madrid's Karim Benzema (right) is a target for Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger Manager Arsene Wenger is a long term admirer of Benzema and has tried to sign the striker on several occasions before.
But Arsenal now look well placed to finally land the striker ahead of the September 2 transfer deadline. Wenger has found huge frustration in
their attempts to land Luis Suarez and Wayne Rooney, but landing Benzema
would soften the blow of missing out on the Barclays Premier League
duo. Arsenal have at least £70million to
spend on new signings this summer, so affording Benzema will not be a
problem for the London club.
On target: Benzema scored for Madrid against Real Betis on the opening day of the La Liga season But Wenger admitted defeat in his attempts to land Suarez. '(There is) absolutely no chance of that,' said Wenger when asked about Suarez. The Gunners boss, though, stressed he
was looking to strengthen, especially in midfield, with Mikel Arteta
and Abou Diaby both also sidelined. 'We tried to bring one in, but we are working on that. You have to understand there is still a long way to go,' he said. 'The transfer market starts for me now and a lot of activity will happen between now and September 2.
Staying put: Luis Suarez will not be joining Arsenal this summer despite Arsene Wenger's interest
'From August 21 until September 2 you have 12 days, so a lot will happen. It starts now.' Wenger continued: 'It is like a poker
game. People hold their cards as long as possible and see what is
happening out there. In the end, they go for decisions.
'First everybody goes on holiday and
nobody wants to do anything, then in many clubs there are manager
changes. They need to know the squad before they make a decision. Many,
many things, but it is always like that.'
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