Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema has claimed that he never had any intention of joining Arsenal in the summer transfer window.

Despite being a key player under former boss Carlo Ancelotti and remaining a crucial part of the club's plans when Rafael Benitez arrived, Benzema was repeatedly linked with a switch to the Gunners.

An official bid was never made, but the Frenchman insists that he did not consider leaving the Santiago Bernabeu.

When asked by Journal du Dimanche if the move was ever a possibility, Benzema replied: "Never. Like every summer, I laugh about it with my brother and my friends. 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."

Benzema has scored seven goals for Real in all competitions this season.