Real Madrid Transfer News: Rafa Benitez Denied New Striker Signing, Top Rumours

Real Madrid manager Rafael Benitez has reportedly had his request for a new striker denied by the club's hierarchy.  

Per Enrique Ortego of Spanish outlet Marca, Benitez had floated the idea of bringing in a new forward as he is worried about the lack of depth in his attacking line.

However, he has reportedly been denied his wish as the club's directors believe there is already enough firepower in a team that includes Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema.

Bleacher Report's Andy Brassell is not so sure, though, having recently suggested Los Blancos could do with a new striker:

While Bale, Ronaldo and Benzema are indeed prolific, an injury to one of them would spell trouble for Benitez as Real are lacking proven quality in their backups. 

However, with mooted former target Fernando Llorente reportedly set for a switch from Juventus to Sevilla, it is unclear whom Real would go in for should they want another striker, per Marca.

Ortego's report maintains Real are prepared to move for a striker in the January transfer window should  they be struggling come the winter or short on players through injury.

There may yet be movement, though, before the closure of the current transfer window with reports suggesting Benzema is actually on his way out of the Bernabeu to Arsenal.

According to Italian football writer Emanuele Giulianelli (h/t the Daily Star's Rhys Turrell), the Frenchman's £45 million switch to the Emirates is imminent:

The departure of Benzema would immediately require Real to find a replacement.

However, the fact that Benitez has been told he cannot sign any new strikers suggests the 27-year-old is going nowhere and will lead the line for Real in the new season.