Transfer Battle: Arsenal and Chelsea Set to Clash as Manchester United Make Decision
The January transfer window could see a surprise battle for Karim Benzema’s signature, as Arsenal and Chelsea are reportedly considering shock bids for the Real Madrid icon. Both Premier League clubs are in need of a prolific center-forward to lead their top-flight revivals, and Benzema’s reported availability makes him an attractive option. Last summer, Benzema, along with many other high-profile stars, left European football for lucrative contracts in Saudi Arabia. However, he now faces an uncertain future in the Middle East as his club Al-Ittihad is reportedly furious with him for not attending training after a prolonged break. This situation has left Benzema’s immediate future in doubt, and several European clubs are looking for a center-forward in January. Arsenal and Chelsea may be persuaded to make a blockbuster move for the experienced attacker, who has scored 354 goals in 648 appearances for Real Madrid.
Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson has struggled for goals since joining from Villarreal, prompting the club to seek an experienced number 9 to guide him. Similarly, Arsenal’s lack of goals from their forwards has put them out of contention for the Premier League title. Mikel Arteta’s team has not been able to rely on the prolific scoring of Manchester City and Liverpool. Manchester United has reportedly ruled out a move for Benzema due to his high wages, leaving the path clear for either Arsenal or Chelsea to make a deal.
While signing a 36-year-old player whose performances in the Saudi Pro League have been disappointing is not typical of Arsenal or Chelsea’s transfer strategy, they may make an exception for Benzema. His past form as one of the greatest strikers of his generation could potentially turn the tide for either club’s season.
