Arsenal transfer news LIVE: Karim Benzema TWIST, Gunners agree defender deal with Aston Villa, Sergi Roberto latest

ARSENAL have been dealt a blow in their hunt for Karim Benzema as reports suggest that footballing icon will stay at Al-Ittihad this January.

Meanwhile, the Gunners and Aston Villa have struck a deal which sees youngster Lino Sousa make the switch from the Emirates to Villa Park.

And Arsenal are set to receive a boost in their pursuit of Sergi Roberto as the Spaniard is set to leave Barcelona at the end of the season.

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