Karim Benzema’s agent sends clear transfer message to Arsenal and Chelsea

James GoldmanPublished Jan 19, 2024, 8:09am|Updated Jan 19, 2024, 8:10am

Karim Benzema’s agent has sent a clear message to the likes of Chelsea and Arsenal over the immediate future of the veteran striker.

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The 36-year-old was said to be considering his future after six torrid months in the Saudi Pro League with Al Ittihad.

Although the Real Madrid legend has maintained an impressive goalscoring record, he clashed with his now former manager Nuno Espirito Santo and was forced to close his social media accounts following a torrent of abuse from his own fans.

Benzema’s reported dissatisfaction has put a number of Premier League clubs who want to sign a recognised No.9 in the January transfer window on red alert.

Manchester United were the first to be linked with Benzema which was no surprise given their struggles in front of goal this season.

Chelsea, too, are potentially on the lookout for a new centre forward given Christopher Nkunku’s latest fitness setback, allied to Nicolas Jackson’s involvement at AFCON.

The Blues are reportedly set to listen to offers for Armando Broja and have placed a £50millio valuation on the academy graduate’s head amid interest from Wolves

.

Arsenal, meanwhile, are unlikely to be able to secure their top target, Ivan Toney, this month despite his apparent U-turn earlier this week.

Unfortunately for any interested parties, Benzema looks almost certain to be forced to remain where he is for now with L’Equipe reporting that the former Ballon d’Or winner will ‘will 100% stay at Al-Ittihad’.

Unlike Benzema, meanwhile, Jordan Henderson successfully engineered his exit from the Saudi Pro League on Thursday, completing his move to Ajax.

‘I’m sad to say that I will be leaving Al Ettifaq with immediate effect,’ the former Liverpool captain wrote on Twitter.

‘It wasn’t an easy decision but one that I feel is best for me and my family. I want to take this opportunity to thank the club & the fans for all the support during my time. I really felt the love from Day One.

‘I’ll keep watching & hoping for your success. Good luck for the future.’

MORE : Chelsea should avoid ‘bonkers’ Evan Ferguson deal and sign Karim Benzema instead, says Glen Johnson

MORE : Chelsea urged to Brighton striker Evan Ferguson instead of ‘short-term’ Karim Benzema

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