Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger shot down rumours of an impending move for Karim Benzema from Real Madrid, and if history tells us anything, it could very well be the precursor for the marquee signing to be completed.
If there is one thing that needs to be taken with plenty of salt, it is when Wenger replies to a question regarding a transfer rumour.
For instance, when Wenger was asked about an imminent move for Santi Cazorla from Malaga, the manager's answer was "who?"
So, even if Wenger played down the chances of Benzema moving to the Emirates this summer, all the Gooners out there can still keep their hopes up, because until 1 September, anything is possible, even a seemingly impossible move for the France international striker.
"No, nothing is happening. Honestly no," was Wenger's answer to the Benzema to Arsenal question. "I don't know who brings that up. Is it Spanish media or English media? I don't know."
Considering the fact that the rumours have just not died down – if anything, it is only increasing – shows there is some fire burning there somewhere, with the question being if Arsenal can convince Real Madrid to sell one of their main players.
Rafa Benitez clearly rates Benzema highly, but things might change if Cristiano Ronaldo is used in a more central role this season.
If that is the case, Benzema might find himself playing out of position or on the bench, which is where Arsenal can strike with a big offer and offer the chance to the Frenchman to be the main man through the middle.
Benzema has always been a bit sidelined by the powerhouse talent at Real Madrid – it is impossible for most to get the plaudits when a certain Cristiano Ronaldo is in the same team – and maybe Wenger can use his powers of persuasion to tempt the 27-year-old into a move to the Emirates.
If that first step is completed, the second one will be to convince Real Madrid to sell. Again, a tall order considering the Spanish club are unlikely to allow Benzema to leave unless they find a replacement themselves – Marco Reus, even if not a like-for-like, and Sergio Aguero have been touted as possible replacements.
Wenger will continue denying any links regarding Benzema or any other player, considering how closed the Arsenal manager is when it comes to transfers, but one thing is certain – the Benzema transfer rumour can be ruled out completely, only once the transfer window comes to a close in little under a month.
