Karim Benzema has issued a potential blow to Arsenal’s transfer plans after ruling out the possibility of leaving Real Madrid.

The striker has been persistently linked with the Gunners over the last few summers and is seen as a potential solution to their lack of a top class central striker.

Benzema himself fuelled the speculation a few weeks ago when he admitted to being frustrated by often being substituted by Bernabeu boss Rafa Benitez but remains a potent force having netted seven times already this season.

His combination alongside Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo is also seen as one of the most lethal in Europe, with his unselfish attitude and work off the ball often credited for helping his team-mates thrive.

The Frenchman has now revealed the rumours during the recent transfer window made him share a joke with those around him and insists he has no plans to leave the Spanish capital.

“Never. Like every summer, I laugh about it with my brother and my friends,” Benzema told Journal du Dimanche. “We wait for the media to come out with these rumours.

“In my opinion, I think that Real and Barca are the pinnacle in football. Why I would leave?

“I’m a starter for the best club in the world. I am happy; it’s that simple.”

The news will be music to the ears of the Real hierarchy, with them currently sitting top of La Liga after eight games.

Los Blancos are rated as the 2.10 second favourites to win the title with bitter rivals and defending champions Barcelona leading the betting at 1.83.