Arsenal are set to test the resolve of Real Madrid with a £40m bid for their French forward Karim Benzema, according to Merca Futbol
Arsene Wenger has been a long-term admirer of his fellow countryman and, despite signing Lucas Perez this summer, is still contemplating adding to his attacking options.
On his side, Benzema has always reiterated his loyalty to the Madrid giant and has expressed his desire to stay.
Real Madrid's reported refusal to sell will no doubt be influenced by the transfer market ban that prohibits them from signing players for the next two transfer windows.
Wenger has constantly been criticised for his refusal to flex his financial muscles in the transfer market, but the signings of Mesut Ozil, Alexis Sanchez and Shkodran Mustafi for big fees suggest he might changing his nature.
Benzema moved to the Spanish capital from Lyon in 2009 for £30m, and despite a disappointing debut season in Madrid, has gone on to record a goal every other game. 162 goals in 322 appearances along with two Champions Leagues, two Copa del Reys and a league title are testament to his talent.
Arsenal have been unable to remain loyal to just the one forward so far this term, with Sanchez, Perez, Theo Walcott and Olivier Giroud all having been deployed up front since the start of the season.
Giroud has been Wenger's number one choice for Arsenal in recent years, since his move from Montpellier back in 2012.
He has notched 82 goals during his time at the Emirates.
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