Arsenal focused on signing versatile defender instead of Karim Benzema
Arsenal are focused on landing a versatile defender before the transfer deadline, according to Daily Mail.
The north London giants returned to winning ways with a 5-0 triumph over Crystal Palace in the Premier League on Saturday. Gabriel Magalhaes delivered a stand-out showing with a goal and an assist.
Despite this, there have been calls from some fans to recruit a new centre-forward, but the club seem to have a different plan in mind. Daily Mail claim that the Gunners have already been offered Benzema this month, but they are likely to prioritise a versatile defensive signing before the transfer window closes.
The source go on to mention that a new arrival is not assured, considering Jurrien Timber has made an impressive recovery from his serious knee injury. The Dutchman is pencilled to return to first-team training before the end of February and could have a key part to play in the season run-in.
Arsenal eyeing late signing before transfer deadline
The Gunners have created plenty of chances over the course of the campaign, but they has been guilty of failing to capitalise on them. They scored five goals in the recent derby win over Palace at the Emirates Stadium, but there was still some lack of cohesion in the final third.
Benzema is apparently looking for a potential return to Europe from Al-Ittihad. The Frenchman is still a world-class striker and would improve the Gunners’ fortunes in front of goal. He has netted 12 times for the Saudi champions after scoring 31 goals for Real Madrid last term.
However, it appears the Gunners are not contemplating a move for his services. Even if Benzema is available on loan and accepts a huge pay-cut, the hierarchy may still need to pay a club-record salary for a short-term deal.
Manager Mikel Arteta feels the funds could be better utilised for the purchase of a versatile defender. As things stand, there is no stand-out target, but we should get an idea of the club’s choice in the coming days if they are seriously considering a late signing.
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