Chelsea Interested in Winter Transfer for Karim Benzema
According to reports, Chelsea is keen on signing Karim Benzema in the winter transfer window. This comes as the Real Madrid legend considers leaving Saudi Arabia following Jordan Henderson’s move to Ajax.
Benzema, 36, joined Al-Ittihad on a free transfer in June after an incredible 14 seasons in Spain. During his time in Spain, he scored 354 goals in 648 games and won four LaLiga titles and five Champions Leagues.
Since joining Al-Ittihad, Benzema has scored 15 goals in 24 matches. However, he has reportedly struggled to settle in his new surroundings.
Chelsea’s Interest in Benzema
Chelsea is showing interest in signing Benzema as they continue to search for a consistent goal scorer. Despite spending over £1 billion since Todd Boehly’s takeover, the Blues have been unable to find a reliable striker.
Chelsea is well aware of Benzema’s ability to find the back of the net, as he scored six goals against them during Champions League games in 2021, 2022, and 2023.
According to ESPN, Benzema is now considering a return to Europe after seeing Jordan Henderson leave Al-Ettifaq for Ajax. This has opened up the possibility of a move to Chelsea.
Furthermore, Benzema may feel at home in London due to Chelsea’s sizable French contingent, including players like Axel Disasi, Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile, Christopher Nkunku, Malo Gusto, and Lesley Ugochukwu. Additionally, current teammate N’Golo Kante, who spent seven years with Chelsea, can provide a positive review of Stamford Bridge.
However, Al-Ittihad is reluctant to let go of Benzema after just six months. He signed a three-year deal with the club and is earning a staggering £3.5 million per week, totaling over £170 million per year. Staying in Saudi Arabia for another 18 months would allow him to keep his entire fortune without paying taxes.
Nevertheless, Benzema is exploring his options following Henderson’s departure, and Chelsea is expected to be one of the clubs he considers.
Most read in Football
FREE BETS – BEST BETTING OFFERS & NEW CUSTOMER BONUSES
In one memorable match, Benzema scored a superb hat-trick at Stamford Bridge. This performance further highlights his potential impact at Chelsea.
TRANSFER NEWS LIVE: Stay updated with all the latest transfer deals from around the world this January.