Arsenal look to Benzema to ease the burden on Robin van Persie
Published:Arsene Wenger is reportedly set to abandon his policy of refusing to spend big on established talent, as he looks to bring in a partner for Robin Van Persie.
The Dutch forward has been in majestic form in 2011, racking up an incredible striker rate which sees him average more than a goal per game in the Premier League.
He has delayed contract talks until the summer though, eager to see if Arsenal can match his ambitions with the type of squad they look to build for the coming seasons.
In Karim Benzema, Wenger should be able to allay his captain’s fears.
The French striker has commanded a more regular spot in the first team at Real Madrid so far this season, but with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Gonzalo Higuain in their ranks, along with youngsters such as Jose Maria Callejon making an impact of late, Benzema could be seen as disposable.
That said, the physical attacker would not come cheap.
Likely to command a fee of around £30million, it remains to be seen whether or not Wenger will be willing to part with that sort of cash to beef up his frontline, though you can bet he would value keeping Robin Van Persie at the club as almost priceless.
At the other end of the pitch, Arsenal are still desperately seeking defensive reinforcements as they look to claim a first trophy in seven years.
Gary Cahill would be an ideal signing, eligible to be registered for the latter stages of the Champions League, and his English nationality would be a big plus point for a side short on home-grown talent with changing UEFA regulations in effect from next season.
Arsenal look set to go head-to-head with North London rivals Tottenham for Cahill’s signature, whilst Chelsea have also expressed an interest in the England international.
