Karim Benzema's apparent frustration at the Bernabeu over reduced playing time under new manager Rafael Benitez has sparked transfer rumors linking the French international to Arsenal.

The 27-year-old forward answered in the affirmative when asked whether or not he was "fed up of being substituted" following Real Madrid's 1-1 draw with Atletico on Sunday.

"Yes, it's true. I'm a relaxed person and will keeping work hard so I'm not the player who gets taken off. I was subbed to make the team more defensive given the result," said Benzema via AS.

According to Daily Star, Benzema's current predicament could renew interest from Arsenal, who had been trying in vain to sign the potent striker during the summer.

The Frenchman opened the scoring early at Atletico with a beautiful header from a Dani Carvajal cross. He was then substituted by Mateo Kovacic in the 77th minute for defensive purposes, as per BBC Sport.

Benzema's goal-scoring abilities cannot be denied. He is currently the Spanish League's top scorer with six goals, despite playing only one full 90-minute game so far in the current La Liga season.

Soccer reporter Dermot Corrigan gave some insight into Benitez's thought process in deciding to substitute Benzema.

The Spaniard's strategy did not go as planned as Luciano Vietto leveled the scoring in the 83rd minute. The 21-year-old Argentinean netted his first goal for Atletico by weaving through Real Madrid's defense and managing to position himself directly in front of the goal post to convert on a Jackson Martinez left-side cross.

As for Arsenal, the Emirates Stadium squad has no current deficiencies at the offensive end as Alexis Sanchez and Theo Walcott have formed an effective partnership. Walcott has tallied 15 goals in his last 20 starts. Meanwhile, OptaJoe reported of Sanchez's renewed play after a slow start this season.

That being said, a big-name striker like Benzema would only improve Arsenal's chances of winning its 14th English Premier League Championship title.

It is worth mentioning though that Benitez isn't likely to substitute Cristiano Ronaldo. If he continues on with his strategy of replacing one of his attacking line with a midfielder or an extra defender when the squad is in a winning position, Benzema would almost always be the odd man out.