Arsenal, Paris Saint Germain and Manchester United are on alert as Karim Benzema could be made available by Real Madrid this summer.
In a departure that has been tipped since Benitez was named Madrid manager, Benzema’s potential move away from Spain could accelerate as pre-season closes in.
Reports in Spain are highlighting the potential availability of Benzema this summer, with Rafael Benitez viewing Cristiano Ronaldo as his main number 9 for the season. Benitez has always preferred to play with a prolific frontman rather than a provider, like Benzema.
27 year old Benzema has a contract with Madrid until 2019 – but will not want to stay at the club if he is relegated to the bench. Madrid are reportedly looking to replace Benzema with a player willing to play second fiddle to Ronaldo as the clubs sole striker.
Arsenal have been linked with Benzema for years and whilst a sale still remains a rumour – the reports are starting to get stronger. Couple that with many outlets reporting Benzema as a priority for Arsenal this summer and suddenly the rumour could have substance.
If Benzema is made available the Gunners will have plenty of competition, with Paris Saint Germain and Manchester United heavily linked. Wenger will hope he can influence Benzema to choose Arsenal over the other interested parties.
There have been reports that Arsenal have made a £17.8million bid for Benzema – although we understand there to be no official bid so far. If we did make a bid, I’d expect it to be a lot higher than that..
Lukas Podolski’s departure gives Arsenal more room on the wage bill to bring in a high earner, as the German was earning around £95,000 at The Emirates. Podolski officially joined Galatasaray for £1.8million earlier this week ending his three year spell at the club. His departure also frees up the number 9 jersey, step forward Karim Bezema?
Did you see? Chairman Confirms Club Are ‘Working Hard’ To Sign Arsenal Defender