Karim Benzema to Arsenal: 'Real Madrid striker is a great player who would fit in any team,' says Santi Cazorla

But Cazorla is doubtful the deal will happen

Santi Cazorla poses with the Community Shield (GETTY IMAGES)

Arsenal playmaker Santi Cazorla has spoken about the club's reported £40m target Karim Benzema, saying the Real Madrid forward is "a great player who would fit into any team".

Speaking to Spanish radio station Cadena Cope, Cazorla did add that he doubts manager Arsene Wenger would sign another striker this summer.

"I'm not very aware on whether there is any interest or not," The 30-year-old said.

"The manager knows it better than anyone. Benzema is a great player. Every side would like to have him but I think the manager already has his team made and probably he is not looking for another striker.

"Benzema fits into any team. The good players fit well in every side. He has quality and would adapt great."

Benzema fuelled transfer speculation he was moving to the Gunners last week by posting a picture of himself on a private jet with the caption: "Leave the past to the past. #directionfuture", as well as following an account called 'Wengerland'.

Karim Benzema in action for Real Madrid last week (Getty)

It was false hope, however, as Benzema stayed with Real Madrid on their pre-season tour of Asia.

Wenger also said after Arsenal's 1-0 Community Shield win over Chelsea on Sunday that the club had not bid for the French striker.