Arsenal look to have missed out on signing Real Madrid star Karim Benzema this summer after the player posted on Twitter that he was staying put.
This will be a major blow to the Gunners, who may now have to look elsewhere to bolster their front line. If they have to rely on Olivier Giroud and Theo Walcott to spearhead their attack, then it will be very difficult to keep up with Chelsea and Manchester City in the Premier League title race. Their rivals have the talents of Sergio Aguero and Diego Costa to call on in the final third.
However, the Gunners still have a chance of bringing in some star quality before the transfer window slams shut. Here are five options for the North London club to go after in the final week…
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(Image) Karim Benzema ends Arsenal transfer speculation with latest Twitter post
5) Edinson Cavani, PSG
The Uruguay international has been heavily linked to the Gunners [Metro], and could be perfect up front. Last season he scored 18 goals in 35 Ligue 1 games, and is seen as being at a similar level to Benzema.
4) Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Borussia Dortmund
Although not originally an out and out striker, the 26-year-old is now used there by BVB and has been very successful. While the team was failing in the last campaign, the Gabon international managed 16 goals and 6 assists in 33 Bundesliga matches. He has been linked to the Emirates Stadium by the Daily Mirror.
3) Robert Lewandowski, Bayern Munich
Undoubtedly one of the best forwards in the world, the only real question is whether Arsenal can tempt in to leaving the Allianz Arena [Daily Express]. If Arsene Wenger were to pull off the move it would be a major coup.
2) Alexandre Lacazette, Lyon
The 24-year-old may have signed a new contract with OL this summer [ESPN], but a huge bid could tempt them in to selling. He may be worth it as well, having scored 27 times in 33 Ligue 1 matches last time round.
1) Zlatan Ibrahimovic, PSG
He may be a short term option at 33-years-old, but the Sweden international clearly still has the ability to perform at the highest level. The forward is available for £11 million [The Guardian], and a move could allow Wenger to make up for the mistake for not signing him when he had the chance to as a teenager. Manchester United are also keen.