Reports in England say Arsenal FC really want Karim Benzema as the replacement for Alexis Sanchez. The Chilean has remained steadfast in his decision to move away from the Emirates. Reports in Spain as well claim Benzema is leading the list of possible replacements for the forward.

French manager Arsene Wenger is a confessed fan of the player. He has admired the player for long and has tried getting him on a number of occasions. With the decreasing market value of Benzema and his age, Real Madrid might likely cash in on the offer from the north London club.

The player is set to return after the international break following his hamstring injury last month. The 28-year old Sanchez would be hard to replace but Benzema can try.

Sanchez could have been dorning the sky blue colours if his deadline day move to Manchester City materialized. The Copa America winner has netted 53 times in 108 games in the Premier League for Arsenal. Benzema’s 122 goals in 247 games in the La Liga is a close match.

The new deal Benzema recently signed would make him come at high cost to the Gunners. Besides, the experienced player can see off the rest of his illustrious career at the Bernabeu rather than a risk move to the Emirates.

If Sanchez agrees pre-contract in January with PSG or Man City that are leading the chase for his signature, Benzema might move to London next summer. The presence of Alexandre Lacazette and Danny Welbeck threaten the likely move, as one would have to give way. It also frees up the striker role for Madrid to strengthen. However, with Madrid talisman Cristiano Ronaldo playing more as a striker and Benzema combining very well with him, Coach Zinedine Zidane and the club could decide to retain Benzema for much longer.