karim-benzema
Karim Benzema could be headed to Arsenal before the transfer deadline. Reuters

A shock home loss to West Ham United in the season opener may prompt Arsenal to make a more determined push for reinforcements in what has been a rather insipid summer transfer session. The player front and center of speculation to join the Gunners is still Karim Benzema, who has been the subject of transfer rumors for quite some time.

There has even been talk that Benzema is already on his way to London for a medical. Benzema has not posted a comment on Twitter since July 31, but a Venezuelan model and presenter may be doing the communicating for him on social media. Whether Jeinny Lizarazo's sources are providing accurate information is anyone's guess.

The Real Madrid striker has been linked with Arsenal for years, and the asking price has reached £45 million, according to Daily Mail. However, Arsene Wenger, new Real Madrid manager Rafael Benitez and Benzema's agent have all recently denied that the French star was leaving for Arsenal.

Arsenal central midfielder Mesut Ozil arrived from Real Madrid for £42.5 million in 2013, and there is the thought that since the two clubs were once able to execute such a huge deal they can figure out how to do it again. Ozil earns roughly £150,00 a week and a similar contract might be necessary to bring in the the 27-year-old Benzema.

Real Madrid are thought to be interested in bring in Sergio Aguero from Manchester City, but it would be surprising for City to part with such an exceptional striker as they compete for the Premier League title. The lack of a forward replacement for Real Madrid may be the overriding reason Arsenal will miss out on Benzema.

Meanwhile, Joel Campbell is still with the Gunners despite multiple rumors that the Costa Rican winger would leave on loan. Daily Star reported that Palermo are struggling to match the £7-million fee for a permanent deal.