Arsenal board target alternative signing after declining Karim Benzema offer

Benzema’s offer declined as Arsenal explores defensive alternatives

Arsenal has reportedly turned down the opportunity to sign veteran striker Karim Benzema, opting instead to focus on bolstering their defensive ranks.

The French striker, currently plying his trade at Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League, expressed his desire to leave the club after less than a year, prompting his availability to several European outfits.

Despite Arsenal’s initial priority of securing a new striker this transfer window, Financial Fair Play constraints have limited their options.

According to DailyMail, Benzema was presented to the Gunners earlier this month, but the North London club is now contemplating a move for a “versatile defender” as an alternative.

Amidst these developments, Jurrien Timber’s recovery from a cruciate ligament injury has been progressing positively. The £38 million signing from Ajax, who suffered the setback in August, is expected to return to action in the final two months of the campaign.

While Arsenal weighs its defensive options, Benzema is reportedly in talks for a potential return to Lyon, the club where he rose through the ranks before joining Real Madrid in 2009.

The 36-year-old’s abrupt return to training, 17 days late after a holiday in Mauritius, has raised eyebrows at Al-Ittihad, with reports suggesting the club is unhappy with the striker’s tardiness.

As the January transfer window deadline approaches, Arsenal finds itself at a crossroads, evaluating defensive reinforcements over a high-profile striker in a bid to shore up their squad for the challenges ahead.

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