Arsenal launch £35m bid for Benzema

Arsenal have been forced to splash the cash this month following Alexis Sanchez’s departure to rivals Manchester United.

The Gunners have already brought in Henrikh Mkhitaryan in a swap deal and are also said to be closing in on Borussia Dortmund’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

And another player who could be added to Arsene Wenger’s ranks, according to Spanish outlet Don Balon, is Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema.

The France international has long been linked with a move to north London and the report says Arsenal have lodged a £35million bid.

Real president Florentino Perez is said to be red-faced over Benzema and feels he should have cashed in on the striker sooner.

The 30-year-old was not sold in the summer at the request of Zinedine Zidane who showed faith in the former Lyon man.

However, he has not been repaid and poor form and injuries have left Real Madrid in a weak position in terms of negotiating a higher fee for the front man.

He has made 21 appearances for the La Liga champions this season and has scored just five goals, with only two of those coming in the league.

However, Benzema could prove good business for Arsenal if Wenger can get him firing, especially at such a low price.

The France international would also be a suitable replacement for Olivier Giroud who is potentially heading to Dortmund as part of the Aubameyang negotiations.

When asked about a deal involving both players this week, Wenger replied: “Look, the negotiations are not as far as that.

“You never know how close they are. These are the kind of things that, at the moment, are one of the possible movements.

“We have other things in mind as well and we have plenty of opportunities in different positions.

“The final decision is not made.”