Karim Benzema made his move to the Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad on a mega-money contract in summer 2023 but things have not been working out for the French striker.
Benzema is seeking a way out of the Gulf country and just the rumours of the 2021 Ballon d’Or’s move from Saudi intrigued many top clubs, particularly from the Premier League, to consider a six-month loan spell.
Arsenal became the latest club to consider the signing of the five-time Champions League winner as the Gunners are in desperate reinforcements in their attack as their struggle for the top spot continues, reported TeamTalk on Thursday.
Mikel Arteta’s attacking troops Gabriel Jesus, Eddie Nketiah and Kai Havertz have not been performing up to the mark and the Spaniard, who came close to winning the PL last season, does not want to wait till summer to bring enforcement to the required position.
Another source very close to the club, Football London, stated that Arsenal are “unlikely” to spend big on the 36-year-old and would rather opt to get his services for a six-month loan spell.
“If Arsenal cannot afford to spend big in January, then an approach to Benzema seems at least worth a conversation. However, despite the player’s incredible career, the move would still come with risks,” the source stated.
“Benzema is now 36 and it is unlikely Al-Ittihad would allow him to be loaned without the Gunners taking on some of his massive wages. He is also untested in the Premier League and given his age, the striker himself may wish to go somewhere where trophies are more assured.
It is worth mentioning Manchester United have also been keeping an eye on Benzema’s situation at Al-Ittihad. Although the club was reported to have a “serious” interest in the Frenchman, there had been no reports of the contact between two parties.
