Five strikers Arsenal could turn to if they miss out on Mario Balotelli

4. Karim Benzema

Arsene Wenger is believed to be a keen admirer of another Real Madrid striker, Karim Benzema, although the Frenchman is unlikely to become available unless Real are successful in their pursuit of Liverpool’s Luis Suarez. Strong, powerful and explosive, Benzema is one of the most all-round forwards in the modern game, but would command an eye-watering fee as well as significant wages if he is to be tempted away from the Bernabeu. Securing Benzema’s signature would require a similar leap of faith as that taken last summer in the pursuit of Mesut Ozil, also from Real.