Arsenal are ready to enter the race to sign Karim Benzema on loan and rival Chelsea for the former Real Madrid captain’s signature.
According to TEAMtalk, there is speculation that Arsenal might enter the race to sign former Real Madrid captain Karim Benzema on a loan deal. The Al-Ittihad striker has endured problems with the Saudi Pro League club lately, thus prompting rumours of a temporary move away, with Chelsea also keen.
Arsenal considering Karim Benzema swoop?
Mikel Arteta has been looking for a new striker in this winter window, as plenty of high-profile names are on his shortlist. Financially, a move for their preferred targets may seem difficult as Arsenal could face FFP-related problems unless they manage to sell first.
Arsenal are not performing well in front of goal, with none of their forwards hitting the heights of last season. Arteta has been looking at Ivan Toney as a potential option, but the Brentford striker’s massive price tag puts the Gunners out of the race for now.
Hence, the need to find a viable solution has emerged, and the report states they are considering a move for Karim Benzema. The former Real Madrid captain could move out of Al-Ittihad this month and potentially return to Europe on a loan deal.
A loan move from Arsenal would suit Arteta and his objective to have a new striker on board, as someone with Benzema’s quality and experience would enhance their attack. Whether the Gunners realistically consider him remains the question, as he will come with huge salary, which they will want Al-Ittihad to cover a part of.
Benzema’s Al-Ittihad future and Chelsea’s interest
While Arsenal have emerged in the race, they are not the only team following the Frenchman’s signature. Chelsea are also contemplating a move, as they are in the same boat as the Gunners about signing a new striker in this window.
The Blues have a few targets, but in pursuit of those, they might have to wait until the summer. They need a temporary option now and might consider Benzema as the solution. Manchester United have already ruled out a move having recently seen links to the former Real Madrid captain.
Benzema’s Al-Ittihad future has come under a cloud despite a compelling season, scoring 15 times in 24 appearances. He did not show up for training upon the resumption of the Saudi Pro League season, as Marcelo Gallardo dropped him from the Dubai training camp. Hence, there is speculation that Al-Ittihad might consider loaning him out for the time being and then deciding his future in the summer.
