The mystery surrounding Karim Benzema's future in Saudi Arabia could lead to a surprising result in the Premier League, particularly at Chelsea, according to reports in the English press. The London club is looking for a striker due to Christopher Nkunku's physical problems and Nico Jackson's absence for the Africa Cup of Nations. In this context, the option of signing the former Madrid player has become a real possibility.
As The Telegraph reports, the then-Ballon d'Or winner did not appear with his current team Al Ittihad in pre-season and his situation in Saudi Arabia appears to be complicated. Additionally, Chelsea faces financial constraints that make it unlikely to sign expensive players like Napoli player Victor Osimhen. Ivan Toney, another target, appears destined to stay at Brentford unless Arsenal make a move in this winter market. Therefore, finding a striker on loan in Saudi Arabia has become the most logical option for Chelsea.
There are more candidates, but French is the best option
In this scenario, two names stand out: Roberto Firmino and Karim Benzema. Firmino is a known option with his Premier League experience after eight seasons at Liverpool. On the other hand, Benzema has the opportunity to discover a new challenge in a football that has always attracted him, even though he has never played it before. The final decision is up to Chelsea's will, but it is obvious that the 36-year-old striker wants to leave Saudi football.
Meanwhile, at Al Ittihad, the mystery surrounding Benzema remains. The club continues its pre-season training in Dubai without the player's presence and there is little evidence of his whereabouts. Some reports suggest that he may be stranded in Mauritius due to a typhoon.
