Rumour: Lazio interested in signing Arsenal striker Nicklas Bendtner

Nicklas Bendtner

Out-of-favour Arsenal striker Nicklas Bendtner has been offered a route out of North London by Serie A outfit Lazio, according to The Express.

Despite The Gunners boasting Olivier Giroud as their only other out-and-out striker at the club Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has made it abundantly clear Bendtner is not part of his long term plans. Although the Dane has been called upon when Giroud has been injured or in need of a rest, Wenger is willing to let the forward leave the club.

The 26-year-old spent last season on loan with Italian giants Juventus, although his form was mediocre at best. Having failed to convince the Old Lady that he was worth a permanent transfer Bendtner returned to Arsenal hoping to win back his first team place.

But with no breakthrough on the horizon and Wenger’s mind made up, Lazio have now emerged as potential suitors. Edy Reja’s side have scored just 26 goals in 20 games this season and are lacking fire power up front.

Bendtner, whose current contract expires in the summer, is available at a cut price as Arsenal look to earn a fee for the player rather than let him leave for free. However, if Wenger cannot secure a replacement in January, the Frenchman is likely to block the move altogether and keep the unhappy forward as injury cover for the remainder of the campaign.

Nicklas Bendtner has been restricted to just 8 appearances this season, 7 of which have been as a substitute.