Arsene Wenger responds to Karim Benzema rumours

Arsene Wenger has played down speculation linking Arsenal with a big-money bid for Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema.

Reports emanating from Spain on Sunday evening suggested that the Gunners were readying a £46m move for the France hitman, who has been linked to North London.

"No, nothing is happening," the Frenchman told the club's official website following the Community Shield win over Chelsea at Wembley.

"Honestly no. I don't know who brings that up. Is it Spanish media or English media? I don't know."

Olivier Giroud and Chuba Akpom are Arsenal's only recognised centre-forwards, but speculation has mounted that Theo Walcott - who started up front against the Blues - could be used as a striker.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain struck on 24 minutes as the Gunners beat the Premier League champions 1-0 to clinch the early bragging rights ahead of the 2015-16 campaign.