Karim Benzema to Arsenal: Arsene Wenger has been trying to sign Real Madrid star for years

ARSENAL have been trying to sign Real Madrid star Karim Benzema for years, according to reports in Spain.

Benzema was linked with Arsenal when at Lyon but opted to join Real Madrid for £30million back in 2009.

The 29-year-old has been a big hit at the Bernabeu, scoring 181 goals to break into their top ten scorers of all time.

However, despite starring in a 2-0 win over Barcelona last night, doubts over his future in Spain remain.

And Don Balon say Arsenal are again keen on a swoop despite having Alexandre Lacazette, Alexis Sanchez and Olivier Giroud at their disposal.

Arsenal have been trying to land Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema for years

Wenger has supposedly been trying to land the former France international for years but Real have continually rebuffed their approaches.

But, despite that, he is said to be ‘in love’ with his compatriot.

Don Balon add that Benzema could be included as part of a deal that would see Alexis Sanchez move to the Bernabeu.

Sanchez’s future at Arsenal is far from certain with Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain determined to snap him up.

Arsenal Transfer News Real Madrid Karim BenzemaAFP

Arsenal have been trying to sign Real Madrid star Karim Benzema for years

Arsenal Transfer News Real Madrid Karim BenzemaGETTY

Alexis Sanchez's future at Arsenal is uncertain amid talk he could join Real Madrid

The Chile international has less than a year remaining on his current deal. 

And Wenger, though determined to keep Sanchez, yesterday admitted he was powerless to prevent the board from offloading him.

“After the board has to, of course, agree with me,” he said. 

“And if they don’t agree we have to consider it as well, and I will accept it. But the board is behind me on that.”

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