Arsenal to make January raid for Frenchman

Arsenal are pondering a January move for Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema, according to reports from the Daily Star. The Gunners were strongly linked with the French international over the summer, but were unable to make a serious move as the La Liga champions elected to keep him at the Bernabeu. However, Benzema’s future in the Spanish capital is far from clear, with new coach Carlo Ancelotti said to be unconvinced by the forward’s abilities. Real have been linked with a winter move for Liverpool’s Luis Suarez, which would only be possible if one big name player were to be sold. This has led to rumours that the 25-year-old may be available once the transfer window re-opens. Arsene Wenger is thought to have money available to spend, which would allow him to make a big move for the ex-Lyon front-man. The Emirates Stadium boss is thought to be keen to further bolster his attacking options, and linking Benzema up with £42.5m arrival Mesut Ozil – also signed from Real – could be appealing. Arsenal have also been linked with Manchester United’s Wayne Rooney, but with the England international firmly back in the first-team under David Moyes a transfer looks unlikely. Could Karim Benzema take Arsenal to the next level? Or should Arsene Wenger stick by Olivier Giroud?