Karim Benzema. A player that Arsene Wenger has tried to sign for many years, and it looks like he may finally get the chance this summer as reports in Spain suggest a deal is very much possible.
New boss Rafael Benitez is reportedly set to deploy Cristiano Ronaldo as a central striker, meaning Benzema will lose his place in the starting eleven. The 27 year old may look to leave the club with Euro 2016 next summer and playing time essential. Other reports, however, indicate that Benzema could play behind Ronaldo in a 4-2-3-1 formation.
At 27, now might be a good time for Benzema to test himself in the Premier League. He has become one of the best and most consistent strikers in Europe over the last five years, and whilst he isn’t the most prolific striker on the planet, he can be considered world class.
The latest report, from Spanish site Fichajes, suggests that The Gunners will make a ‘big economic effort’ to sign Benzema this summer. Reliable sources in Spain have already confirmed that Wenger has made signing Benzema a priority this summer, with a source close to Fresh Arsenal confirming a the Gunners were planning a £35million bid.
Benzema is a provider and a goalscorer. He would suit Arsenal’s system very well and I think Wenger has seen him as the clubs ideal frontman for many years. He would certainly give our title chances a significant boost next season.
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After a long and already successful career, Benzema is moving into his prime years. To have a player of his calibre at the club for that stage would be incredible. Benzema’s signing would no doubt be as significant as the coups of Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez.
Paris Saint Germain are cited as possible competition for Benzema’s signature, whilst reports have also suggested that Manchester United have already met with the player.
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