Arsenal are looking more and more likely to complete a deal for Karim Benzema, as reports begin to intensify in Spain.
Sunday’s edition of AS suggests that the Gunners are prepared to do anything to complete the Benzema deal, with Arsene Wenger the driving force behind negotiations.
The report says that Arsenal are willing to pay €65million (£45.8million) for Benzema – and have the funds to complete such a huge deal. At £45.8million – Benzema’s signing would be a record for the Gunners. Whilst Wenger is very keen to sign the Frenchman, it seems clear that the increased TV money has played some part in Arsenal’s willingness to perhaps ‘overspend’ to buy the best.
There are suggestions that Benzema will not start for Madrid under Benitez – and he won’t settle for a place on the bench. A replacement, more willing to play second fiddle is apparently being lined up. AS say Madrid are evaluating three options. Alvaro Morata, Fernando Llorente and Sergio Aguero. Of course Morata and Aguero would more than contend for a starting position, whilst Llorente is the most obvious to be happy with a back up role.
Madrid can buy back Morata, no questions asked for €30million because of a buy-back clause inserted in his contract. After starring for Juventus, he may be reluctant to return to Spain without first team assurances.
Rafael Benitez and Wenger have both played down suggestions that Benzema could join Arsenal, but neither has ruled out a move. It seems at this moment, nobody knows what will happen.
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The report in AS also suggests that Wenger wants to sign a centre back this summer. I find that hard to believe, unless the Gunners are considering loaning out Calum Chambers – as has been suggested in recent weeks.