Arsenal were offered Karim Benzema earlier in January, but they’re more likely to sign a defender before next week’s transfer deadline.

Sami Mokbel reports for the Daily Mail that Arsenal were offered Karim Benzema earlier this month, which could explain the recent links between the two.

The general reporting on Arsenal’s interest in Benzema has been pretty consistent, with various sources writing to deny that the Gunners have made any kind of move for him.

Yet the story clearly came from somewhere, and Mokbel’s report suggests it was Benzema’s camp or a third party making the approach, not the other way around.

In terms of the business Arsenal might do before the window closes, the Mail’s report adds that the Gunners have considered moving for a versatile defender before the deadline.

The club are reportedly still open to making such a move, though there are no specific names given.

Fabrizio Romano wrote earlier this week that the situation between Benzema and Al-Ittihad is tense, and he adds that it’s one to watch in the next few days.

But Romano added that there’s nothing ongoing between Benzema and Arsenal, and the Gunners aren’t working on a deal.

The 36-year-old has scored 12 goals in 20 games in Saudi Arabia, following the 31 goals in 43 games he managed in La Liga and the Champions League last season.