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Arsenal lose out as Benzema tells Real he doesn’t want to leave

| 17.05.2011

Despite not playing a single minute in the four El Classico’s with Barcelona, Real Madrid will not sell Karim Benzema despite reported interest from Arsenal and Juventus.

Real Madrid released a statement last week saying they weren’t prepared to let Benzema go in the summer and while many though the French striker would force his way out, it seems Benzema is happy to stay and fight for his place.

It was reported on Sunday that Arsenal were eyeing up a £25m move for Benzema but it seems not even a strong offer would tempt Real into selling their fourth choice striker.

Real will not sign Emmanuel Adebayor following his six-month loan deal from Manchester City leaving Benzema with one less striker to compete with, but Mourinho’s favour in playing one striker still leaves Cristiano Ronaldo and Gonzalo Higuain ahead of Benzema in the pecking order.

Benzema’s agent said: “At no stage has Karim Benzema thought about leaving Madrid.”

“He has not asked me to negotiate with any club. Karim only wants to continue with Real Madrid and is confirming that with his recent good performances.”

The news will come as another blow to Arsenal fans who could see their side slip to fourth in the table should Manchester City beat Stoke tonight.

Roberto Mancini’s men are the 2/5 favourites to win tonight and the battle for third spot is significant as it means a guaranteed spot in the Champions League.

Should Arsenal miss out on third then their season would start around the middle of August and considering the way Arsenal have once again capitulated this season, the last thing Arsene Wenger wants is a longer season.

Arsenal are the fourth favourites at 7/1 to land the Premier League title next season and at the moment, Arsenal are looking like the fifth best team in the Premier League.

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Author

Robbie Morris

Robbie studied sports journalism at the University of Gloucestershire, an establishment chosen for its proximity to Cheltenham racecourse, where he was a season ticket holder. Upon graduation, Robbie was a contributor to GolfPunk, a national magazine aimed at ridding golf of its traditionalist image, before joining the news.ladbrokes team.