Chelsea are contemplating a move for experienced striker Karim Benzema following the Frenchman’s fallout with Al-Ittihad.
According to The Telegraph, Chelsea are the latest team to consider Karim Benzema as an option. The Blues are trying to find a centre-forward either to cover for the short term or bring someone with a long-term agenda.
Chelsea are interested in Karim Benzema
It’s only been six months since Karim Benzema chose to take on a new adventure in Saudi Arabia. Not only did he leave Real Madrid on a high note, but he also secured a lucrative contract with Al-Ittihad. Despite the experienced striker maintaining his prolific form with 15 goals to his name, there are problems in the background.
Benzema failed to show up for training ahead of the Saudi league’s resumption. Manager Marcelo Gallardo has excluded the Frenchman from his camp in Dubai, which has led to speculation that Benzema might depart on loan this month.
Manchester United and Real Madrid are reportedly keen, and now Chelsea have joined the hunt for the experienced striker, mainly because of the loan opportunity. They are also considering another Saudi Pro League star, Roberto Firmino, as Mauricio Pochettino might lean towards a temporary option.
Benzema’s high wages are something Chelsea can manage with Al-Ittihad and could allow the Frenchman to experience the Premier League. The Blues might see him as someone who can immediately improve their frontline, at least until they bring a top-rated, long-term option to lead the line.
Chelsea are keen on a new striker.
Chelsea’s striker search has seen many top-draw players linked with a move. A recent report suggested the Blues could pay €80 million for Dusan Vlahovic. There are similar stories in circulation as Pochettino wants a solution to his forward line before the window shuts.
In the event a new forward arrives, Armando Broja might consider an exit from the club, which could, in turn, benefit Chelsea financially and flex their range in the transfer market. While Pochettino might prefer a long-term option to come in now, the idea might be to find the best solution even on loan.
The links to Benzema indicate they are open to being someone on loan who has experience at the top level. A temporary move for the Frenchman could allow Chelsea to wait for someone like Victor Osimhen, who reportedly remains keen to join the Blues.
