Arsenal handed 'double boost' in bid to land striker as clear path opens up to lethal forward

Arsenal have received a potential double boost in their reported bid to land Karim Benzema this month. The Gunners may well move for a striker this month having struggled in front of goal so far this term.

Mikel Arteta has relied on Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah up to this point, while Kai Havertz has also featured in the striker role. But Arsenal haven't taken their chances enough early in the campaign, and they are looking up at top spot as a result.

Financial Fair Play is a factor this month, given the Gunners spent more than £200million in the summer, and that means, if they want a striker, they likely have to sign one on the cheap or on loan. One possible solution is Al-Ittihad striker Benzema, who has fallen out with the club despite only joining in the summer, leading to him being left behind from their Dubai training camp this month.

Chelsea have been linked, but Football London suggest the Blues will not be making an approach to sign the legendary frontman. Not only are Chelsea not an option, but Real Madrid will also resist moving for the striker who scored more than 200 league goals for the club, according to Marca.

Arsenal could now get a clear run at Benzema this month, but all is not settled just yet, with HITC saying the striker is set for talks over his future with Al-Ittihad this week. If the striker does leave Saudi Arabia, it's unclear what kind of transfer fee and wages he would command, and Arsenal don't have a whole lot to spend due to FFP. Benzema is now 36 years of age, so any deal would likely be a short-term one in any case.