Arsenal’s attempts to sign Karim Benzema have been dealt a major blow, with Real Madrid boss Rafael Benitez claiming that he expects the Frenchman to stay at the Bernabeu this season.
In an interview with Spanish newspaper El Pais, Benitez explained the importance of togetherness in his star-studded squad: “It’s that having alternatives in any position which always helps,” the former Liverpool boss said.
“For example, the middle of the park – you have a midfielder who is better with containment and another with passing.
“Depending on the match, you can take advantage of one or the other. In the case of the striker, the same.
“Benzema is a great player. And one of my ideas this year is that he exceeds the barrier of 20-25 goals. In that, I have put a lot of confidence.”
The Gunners have been linked with a move for Benzema for some time, with most claiming that with the 27-year-old could sway the Premier League title back to north London. However, Arsene Wenger could now be forced to look elsewhere for a new striker. Benzema uploaded a photo onto his official Instagram page saying: “Come back to Madrid…#work”. This could be evidence that Olivier Giroud’s compatriot is staying in Spain.
The Telegraph now say that Wenger could turn his attention to PSG and Uruguay star Edinson Cavani, with the Benzema deal looking increasingly unlikely.
