Arsenal 'clear to make Karim Benzema swoop'

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has reportedly been given the green light to make a record-breaking bid for Karim Benzema.

The Gunners have been linked with a move for the French international in recent weeks, but Wenger had dismissed the speculation as merely "paper talk".

However, the Daily Mail claims that Arsenal have been cleared to break their club record to sign Benzema.

It is thought that Wenger can offer Benzema more than the £150,000-per-week wages earned by Mezut Ozil.

Real Madrid are said to be reluctant to sell the ex-Lyon forward, but may be tempted with a substantial bid.