Arsenal transfer news: The latest Gunners media briefing from the Emirates with reaction to stories on Karim Benzema and Xavi Simons.

Karim Benzema could be on the move this month (Image: Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Arsenal’s transfer need is no secret and perhaps their Premier League title chances depend on their ability to bring in a top class striker.

The Gunners are being linked with a number of options including Victor Osimhen and Ivan Toney. However, Osimhen has recently underlined that while the Premier League is his ultimate ambition, he is not ready to leave Napoli.

Meanwhile, Toney has refused to keep quiet his desire to play for one of the top teams and it seems like the Emirates would be an obvious next stop. But having only just come back from a betting ban, the attacker is expected to stay at the Gtech Community Stadium in a nod of thanks for the Bees supporting him through his suspension.

Besides, a big money move for Toney right now would still be a risk for Arsenal given he is yet to get minutes under his belt this season. And so, Mikel Arteta might need to pivot towards a temporary solution.

Or that is what Teamtalk believes anyway, with the outlet claiming that Arsenal have discussed a possible loan approach for Karim Benzema. The Frenchman is widely reported to be unhappy in Saudi Arabia following his summer switch from Real Madrid to Al-Ittihad.

A number of European clubs have been linked with a move and the aforementioned report says Arteta has spoken about loaning in the Ballon d’Or winner. They are thought not to be the only team in the mix, though, with Chelsea said to be mulling over an approach.

football.london says: “If Arsenal cannot afford to spend big in January, then an approach to Benzema seems at least worth a conversation. However, despite the player’s incredible career, the move would still come with risks.

“Benzema is now 36 and it is unlikely Al-Ittihad would allow him to be loaned without the Gunners taking on some of his massive wages. He is also untested in the Premier League and given his age, the striker himself may wish to go somewhere where trophies are more assured.”

Meanwhile, BILD (via Sport Witness) says Arsenal would be prepared to join the race for Xavi Simons in the summer. The Paris Saint-Germain star is currently on loan at RB Leipzig having had his buy-back clause triggered last year while at Dutch side PSV Eindhoven.

Barcelona are also keen on the 20-year-old, who has six goals and nine assists this season. The winger may cost around £60million though, which may rule the cash-strapped La Liga champions out of the race.

Bayern Munich and Inter have also been linked. Leipzig are likely not to have the funds to afford Simons at the end of the season, which could open the door for Arteta.

football.london says: “If Arteta wants competition on his flanks, then this is the type of player he could be going for. However, it seems a bit of an odd move this month.