Arsenal have made a surprise approach to sign long-term target Karim Benzema in a straight swap deal involving Alexis Sanchez, Don Balon reports.
The Real Madrid striker who is rated at £62m has come under strong criticism for his consistency, and his position is seemingly under threat with the potential arrival of Monaco’s Kylian Mbappe.
Sanchez, 28, has been linked with a whole host of clubs during this summer’s transfer window with Manchester City being reported to be the closest to his services.
Selling a player to a direct league rival could have an impact on the title race, and Wenger had made an audacious attempt of offering Sanchez in exchange for Benzema this summer.
However, the European champions have knocked back the Gunners’ bid with manager Zinedine Zidane considering the Frenchman as a key part of his plans for the upcoming league season.
Meanwhile, talks have also begun over a proposed extension, and it appears that Wenger’s ambition to bring Benzema to the Emirates is unlikely to happen this summer at least.
As things stand, Arsenal look likely to keep hold of Sanchez’s services for the final year of his contract with Don Balon citing that City have given up on the attacker.
Arsenal’s summer spending has been restricted to the arrivals of Sead Kolasinac and Alexandre Lacazette, and the next fortnight could see plenty of exits with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain apparently discussing terms with Chelsea.
