Aheed Abrar
Karim Benzema could leave Real Madrid amidst contract talks and Manchester United interest
Real Madrid star Karim Benzema ‘could seek a departure’ if his contract demands are not met amidst interest from Manchester United, according to Spanish outlet El Nacional (h/t Express).
The France international is looking for a pay rise and a two-year deal at Los Blancos. His current contract at the Santiago Bernabeu side expires at the end of the season.
While the La Liga outfit are keen on extending the 35-year-old’s stay, there is a gap between the club’s offer and what the striker is demanding. He wants to become the European giants’ highest-paid player.
However, Florentino Perez is ‘calm’ about the situation. Apart from the Red Devils, Arsenal are also eyeing Benzema’s signature and waiting to see whether he puts pen to paper on a new contract at Madrid.
The Gunners are looking to find a replacement for Gabriel Jesus. The Brazilian has been a key player for Mikel Arteta this season. However, he could miss a large part of the rest of the campaign.
On the other hand, United recently lost Cristiano Ronaldo. The 37-year-old’s departure has left Erik ten Hag with just one natural striker in Anthony Martial.
Unfortunately, the 27-year-old has had a hard time with injuries this season. Marcus Rashford has deputed in the number nine position on several occasions under the Dutch manager.
Benzema won the 2022 Ballon d’Or after his exploits with Los Blancos last season. The French national’s heroics in the Champions League saw the La Liga outfit lift their 14th UCL trophy.
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The 35-year-old has struggled remaining fit in the current campaign and missed the 2022 World Cup. However, even for his age, the forward is still one of the best. But it remains to be seen whether United are able to get him in the coming future.
