---
title: "Arsenal striker target laughs off transfer rumours"
canonical: "https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/arsenal-striker-target-laughs-off-transfer-rumours/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Josh Challies"
section: "Arsenal Football Club"
published: "2015-10-19T18:55:37Z"
modified: "2015-10-19T18:55:37Z"
---

# Arsenal striker target laughs off transfer rumours

[![benzema2](https://cdn.footballtransfertavern.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/benzema2-500x313.jpg)](https://cdn.footballtransfertavern.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/benzema2.jpg?admin)Arsenal fans in the Transfer Tavern have suffered a bitter blow in their quest for a dream signing in 2016, as a firm target laughed off transfer rumours.

[*Sky Sports* runs with quotes from Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema,](https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11835/10034704/karim-benzema-says-real-madrid-exit-rumours-make-him-laugh) who insists he remains happy at the Santiago Bernabeu and dubbed the Spanish club as ‘the best in the world’.

[Arsenal were heavily linked to the Frenchman’s signature during the summer](https://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/football/460695/Exclusive-Karim-Benzema-is-ready-to-join-Arsenal-from-Real-Madrid) but failed to complete a deal, as Benzema remained in the Spanish capital and has quickly found form this season, netting seven goals in eight matches.

When asked if he was ever close to leaving Real Madrid, [Benzema responded by saying:](https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11835/10034704/karim-benzema-says-real-madrid-exit-rumours-make-him-laugh)

> “Never. Like every summer, I laugh about it with my brother and my friends. We wait for the media to come out with these rumours.”
>
> “In my opinion, I think that Real and Barca are the pinnacle in football. Why I would leave? I’m a starter for the best club in the world. I am happy; it’s that simple.”

Arsenal fans have accepted that signing Benzema is a near-impossible task but the optimistic fans at the bar held a slither of hope, which have now been dashed.

**Arsenal supporters, which striker would you target as an alternative to Benzema? Let us know in the comments below!**