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Arsenal given clear run at Luis Suarez after Real Madrid 'pull out'
ARSENAL look to be the sole contenders for Luis Suarez's signature after Real Madrid appear to have pulled out of the race for his signature.
Despite seeing their bizarre bid of £40m + £1 for the 26-year-old rejected by Liverpool, the Uruguayan has been permitted to talk to the Gunners.
Their bid was laughed off by Liverpool owner John W. Henry, who tweeted yesterday: "What do you think they're smoking over at the Emirates?".
Though Real Madrid were also closely connected with a move for Suarez, it seems they are about to cool their interest.
Real saw Gonzalo Higuain complete a £34.5m move to Napoli yesterday after he passed a medical and he is expected to be officially presented on Monday.
Marca, who are a mouthpiece for Real, understand that Suarez is no longer on their agenda as they are not looking for a direct replacement for the Argentine.
The ball appears to be in Suarez's court, even though Brendan Rodgers has valued the striker the same as Edinson Cavani, who joined PSG for £55m.
Suarez came off the bench and played 18 minutes of Liverpool's pre-season win over Melbourne Victory in front of a full house at the MCG.
Real have managed to tie down Jese Rodriguez, who was a Spurs target, has penned a four-year deal which will see him stay at the Bernebeu until 2017.
They also appear close to be offering Alvaro Moratta, who caught the eye of Liverpool, a new deal too.
Meanwhile, Real are not giving up on their pursuit of Gareth Bale, even though Andre Villas-Boas has categorically stated he is not for sale.