Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema was missing for their 0-0 draw at Sporting Gijon.

Benzema missed the game, says Real, due to a thigh injury.

Claims in England and Italy suggest Benzema will sign for Arsenal this week.

Asked about his striker options, Real coach Rafa Benitez said: "To get the best out of the players that we have, we have to give them a certain degree of freedom. We saw quite a few moments of attacking play from the players up front, but with less space in the second half it's a question of precision.

"When there were spaces, we saw quite a few situations where all the players up front were involved."