Is Karim Benzema heading to Arsenal? Arsene Wenger says he wants one more signing before the transfer window closes

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Arsene Wenger says he expects to make another signing before the transfer window closes - but concedes Arsenal are not close to tying up a deal.

The Gunners have only brought in Petr Cech from Chelsea for £10million so far this summer while their Premier League title rivals have strengthened.

Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema has been mooted as the primary target while another central midfielder has also been discussed, but Wenger is still biding his time.

Real Madrid's Karim Benzema has been linked with Arsenal and Arsene Wenger expects one more signing

But manager Wenger admitted that Arsenal are not close to completing another transfer anytime soon

Arsenal's only signing this summer has been goalkeeper Petr Cech from Premier League rivals Chelsea

'When the season starts the window should be finished.' Wenger told reporters at his press conference on Friday.

He added: 'Simple as that. It is too big an advantage for clubs that didn't work well during the transfer window.

'The funds are there, people know that you have the resources, but the players are not available.

'We expect, like you, to make another signing. But at the moment, we are not close.'

Wenger was coy on his assessment of the dealings of Arsenal's Premier League rivals and whether the signings they made would have bolstered the Gunners' squad.

'I don’t know that. I cannot (not) deny that,' Wenger said. 'What you want for any player is their need to buy in this position. (You think) is this player making your squad stronger, and you have to say yes or no. I think we have strong players in every position.' 

Arsenal play Liverpool on Monday night and will be hoping to build on their victory at Crystal Palace last weekend.

Christian Benteke will lead Liverpool's against Arsenal, despite being linked with a move to the Gunners

Roberto Firmino (right) was also linked to Arsenal but could play against them for Liverpool on Monday

Wenger said his rivals will not finish above Arsenal because of the number of signings made in the summer

Brendan Rodgers has spent big on seven signings in the summer, including striker Christian Benteke and Brazil playmaker Roberto Firmino. Both players were also linked with Arsenal but Wenger appeared unconcerned that they are now plying their trade with Liverpool.

'I was asked this question two years ago when some clubs bought 10 players [and people said:] "how do you feel, you have no chance now". What you want is to focus on your own strengths and make sure that you develop your team. 

'The cohesion, the style of play that everybody knows are important qualities. We live in a society that is hungry for news and news is good, I can understand that. But you have to absolutely be convinced that it strengthens your team.'

Olivier Giroud scored a fine goal at Selhurst Park, and Wenger says he is not going to be pressured into buying a new striker as there aren't too many available.

Olivier Giroud (centre) scored a fantastic goal for Arsenal against Crystal Palace in the triumph last weekend

France striker Giroud played a key role as Arsenal recorded their first victory of the season at Palace

'We have in every position strong players. There is a shortage (of strikers) in the world, yes.

'There is a difference between financial power and the availability of top class players.