Karim Benzema has responded to reports linking him with a move away from Al-Ittihad. The striker has been mentioned as a potential target for Arsenal and Chelsea throughout the January transfer window.
Benzema, 36, joined the Saudi Pro League side at the end of his contract with Real Madrid in the summer. However, reports claimed the France international recently failed to return to training on time and has since asked to leave the club.
A report from France said Benzema had a meeting with Al-Ittihad to discuss his future and rejected the idea of ββjoining another Saudi club on loan. A further report from Marca on Wednesday claimed Arsenal were one of the clubs “talking” to the striker’s entourage ahead of another meeting between Benzema and Al-Ittihad.
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The Gunners are said to be battling Manchester United and Lyon for the striker’s signature, while Chelsea have also been mentioned as a possible destination for the goalscorer. The outlet explained that Benzema was ready for “definitive” talks over his future, with Al-Ittihad unwilling to see him leave the club.
However, Benzema has shut down suggestions he is set to leave the club during the January transfer window. Speaking to L’Equipe, Benzema was asked about the transfer speculation: “It’s completely false! The French media don’t know what to invent anymore. The bigger the better.” he said.
This would be a blow to Arsenal and Chelsea given their respective needs for a striker. Benzema was recognized as one of the best strikers in the world during his time at Real Madrid and scored a total of 31 goals during his final campaign in Spain. This season, he has scored nine goals in 15 league games for Al-Ittihad.
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