Besiktas have confirmed their interest in Arsenal striker Marouane Chamakh as they look to bolster their striking options for the new season.

According to Turkish Football, manager Samet Aybaba told local press, “We have decided to push forwards in our attempts to sign a striker, there is a high possibility we will sign Chamakh.”

It’s not the first time the Moroccan has been linked with a move to Istanbul, back in July Aybaba said Chamakh was a player they were interested in and with the transfer window about to close they need to make their move.

Chamakh joined Arsenal from Bordeaux in the summer of 2010, beginning his career in fine style, leading the line well in the absence of Robin van Persie and scoring some crucial goals.

The Dutchman’s return to the team, and subsequent form, meant Chamakh withered and died like a old flower, and he has scored just one goal in his 20 months at the club.

With the signings of Olivier Giroud and Lukas Podolski pushing him even further down the pecking order, it would be to everyone’s benefit if he were to move on.

Except, maybe, Besiktas, but that’s their problem.