Arsenal have been boosted by the news that Real Madrid are unhappy with their current striking options, according to Fichajes [via the Metro].
Los Merengues manager Rafael Benitez has criticised his offensive options as insufficient according to the reports, which can be seen as criticism towards Arsenal target Karim Benzema-arguably the club’s most high-profile out-and-out striker.
The Gunners will be happy to hear this, with respected journalist Emanuele Giulianelli tipping them to sign the forward for £45 million.
Benzema deal is on: best offer is from Arsenal, £45mln. They will take a decision soon. He wants to reach Wenger.
— Emanuele Giulianelli (@EmaGiulianelli) August 13, 2015
These rumours may well have made their way to the North London outfit’s dressing room, with the north-London heavyweights improving their performance significantly in gameweek two of the Premier League.
Current striker Olivier Giroud reacted with a brilliant goal against Crystal Palace on Sunday, and the Frenchman will want to continue showing his best form to avoid being replaced by his compatriot.
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Last season, Benzema managed 15 goals and 10 assists in 29 La Liga games last season, while Giroud scored 14 and assisted three in 27 Premier League matches. However, it is the Arsenal man’s ability against the best sides which have put his place in doubt [Daily Telegraph].
If the Arsenal are to win the top flight, then an improvement will be needed in the forward line. Benzema would certainly represent an upgrade on the unconvincing Giroud.
Arsene Wenger has already been looking at alternatives to the France international so far this summer.
PSG’s Edinson Cavani has been linked [Fichajes via Metro], as well as Borussia Dortmund ace Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang [respected El Confidencial journalist Kike Marin via Metro].