Andy Cole has urged Man United to sign French striker being chased by Premier League rivals

Karim Benzema’s admirers include former Manchester United striker Andy Cole, who has urged his former team to try to sign the ex-France international.

It was claimed on Tuesday that Benzema is still not allowed to play for Al-Ittihad and that he trains by himself as his teammates get ready for the season to start. Benzema returned from vacation 17 days late.

According to reports in France, the former Real Madrid striker has asked to quit the team after reportedly feeling “under pressure” at Al-Ittihad. A return to his childhood club Lyon is being suggested.

Despite being 36 years old, former United legend Cole has urged the Red Devils to sign the Ballon d’Or winner should he become available.

‘150 per cent. I would sign him if it was only for a training session,’ Cole told Betfred.

‘I was very surprised when he left Real Madrid in the summer, but I understand why it happened. That money he’s earning in Saudi Arabia is generational wealth. It’s for his kids and his kids’ kids.

‘When you’re at that age in your career and you’ve already won four La Liga titles, five Champions League trophies and the Ballon d’Or, I can understand why he went to Saudi.

‘Could he do it in the Premier League at his age? 100 per cent considering the way he looks after himself.

‘If Manchester United have the opportunity to sign him, then they should definitely try and make that happen.’

Rasmus Hojlund, who Man United signed in the summer for £72 million, has only scored twice in 16 Premier League games, demonstrating the team’s desperate need for a new striker this season.