Karim Benzema and Arsenal have shared the most long-distance of relationships having never crossed paths either via a transfer or a competitive match and yet having been discussed in the same circles for many years. Benzema did face Arsenal in a pre-season friendly in America in 2019 but notoriously has been linked with a move many campaigns ago for a number of successive summers but nothing materialised.
However, finally, his next transfer could indeed have an impact on the Gunners. That said, for those hoping it’s to see him arrive at the carpet I am sorry but you will be disappointed.
Benzema reportedly is receiving significant interest from Saudi Arabia. ESPN have suggested that he will leave and join Al Ittihad, making the trip former Los Blancos teammate Cristiano Ronaldo made when he made his switch to Al Nassr.
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It looked for some time as though Real Madrid would keep Benzema. The Frenchman helped them to another Champions League semi-final and scored 30 goals in 42 matches, yet it seems he is still moving onward.
This leaves Real Madrid with the task of finding a new striker. They are already in the process of adding Jude Bellingham to the group and now could need to invest heavily to replace the likes of Benzema.
Whilst football.london understands that Arsenal are prioritising the midfield and defence this summer, there’s been links to a number of forwards too. With Benzema leaving, the Gunners may have to be wary of the Spanish capital club competing with them for potential targets.
Potential names include Dusan Vlahovic, Rasmus Hojlund and Randal Kolo Muani. Arsenal have Gabriel Jesus, Eddie Nketiah and Folarin Balogun but the future of the latter pair are not necessarily assured.
Jesus too can operate in a wide area and adding a different style of striker would give Mikel Arteta plenty more options for next season. However, with all that said, Real Madrid tend to own the market when it comes to their targets and the Gunners have some way to go if they intend to go head-to-head with Los Blancos for anyone this summer.
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