Karim Benzema is contemplating leaving the Saudi Pro League following a less-than-impressive stint, and rumors suggest he might issue warnings to potential suitors like Chelsea and Manchester United. The French striker reportedly had disagreements with his now-former manager, Nuno Espirito Santo, who was dismissed in November.
Several prominent Premier League teams are reportedly interested in signing the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner to bolster their striker options before the January transfer window closes. Manchester United,
in particular, faced challenges in filling the void left by Cristiano Ronaldo’s departure last year, resorting to the loan market for Wout Weghorst under manager Erik ten Hag.
Despite additional investment from Sir Jim Ratcliffe, United still faces financial constraints this month. With only 24 goals in 21 games this season, the team is in dire need of a new forward, especially with Anthony Martial finding himself benched.
Chelsea, under Mauricio Pochettino, has also struggled to secure a productive striker despite significant spending. Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku, both summer acquisitions, haven’t consistently delivered, while the only other recognized striker, Armando Broja, may depart if a replacement is found and the £50 million valuation is met.
Even Arsenal, in search of a new striker, might consider Benzema on loan, especially since Brentford’s Ivan Toney is unlikely to move until the summer. Al Ittihad, however, with two and a half years left on Benzema’s contract, is reluctant to lose its prized asset this month.
Despite the contractual ties, Benzema may be convinced that he has a chance to secure a return to a major European club within the next two weeks, particularly if Jordan Henderson succeeds in his negotiations with Al Ettifaq before his anticipated move to Ajax.
