Arsenal prepare Medhi Benatia bid

Arsenal are reported to be weighing up a formal bid for Bayern Munich centre-back Medhi Benatia. The Moroccan has stated his intentions to leave the Bavarian giants after he failed to cement a regular place in the starting line-up last season.

The Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is eager to bring in a central defender to build on the spine of the team ahead of the 2016/17 campaign.

French outlet RMC understands that North London giants have had knowledge on Benatia's status at the Allianz Arena, and could come up with an offer for his services in the upcoming transfer window.

Former club AS Roma are also in the running to sign the player, who made a great impression during his time in Serie A.

Benatia has racked just 46 appearances for Bayern since his £22m move from the Giallorossi in 2014.