Arsenal transfer news: Arsene Wenger 'doesn't know' where Karim Benzema speculation comes from

Gunners boss gave a brief answer when quizzed after the Community Shield victory over Chelsea

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Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has dismissed speculation linking the FA Cup and Community Shield victors with Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema.

Much of the summer discourse has been dominated by the suggestion that Wenger was biding his time to make a move for the France international this summer, with some Gunners fans even purchasing shirts with his name printed on the back.

But Wenger, when quizzed on the rumours, insisted: "No, honestly, no. I don’t know who brings that up."

Reports in Spain had previously stated the 27-year-old wanted to leave the Spanish giants after disagreeing with the appointment of former Liverpool and Napoli manager Rafa Benítez.

The Madrid striker scored 22 goals in all competitions last season as the La Liga club failed to lift either the domestic league or the Champions League.

Wenger has repeatedly said he has faith in the attacking talent already at his disposal and had reason to feel further assured after Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain gave his side a 1-0 victory over Chelsea at Wembley on Sunday.

Arsene Wenger at Wembley (Getty)

Theo Walcott was preferred to Olivier Giroud in attack for Arsenal yesterday, suggesting the England international could be set to be played in a more offensive role this season in the Premier League.

"I felt today I wanted Theo’s pace to go in behind. In the first half he worked hard, huge effort, in the second half Giroud gave us a physical presence we needed," Wenger said.