Karim Benzema ‘tempted’ by Arsenal as race for Real Madrid superstar hots up

The race to sign Real Madrid superstar Karim Benzema is hotting up as the Frenchman’s contract is due to expire at the end of the 22/23 season.

As his contract is due to end in the summer, Benzema will be free to hold discussions with foreign clubs in January ahead of a potential free transfer at the end of the campaign.

According to Spanish news outlet Nacional, Premier League duo Arsenal and Manchester United are both eyeing up a move for the latest Ballon d’Or winner.

It is believed that the Old Trafford club offered Benzema a ‘crazy salary’ and have told him that he will be an ‘undisputed starter’ in a bid to lure the 35-year-old to United.

Arsenal meanwhile are thought to be an ‘admirer’ and ‘could start contacts’ with Benzema and his representatives in January.

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta is thought to be looking to sign an out-and-out number nine.

The report also stated that Benzema is ‘tempted’ by a potential move to the Premier League.

However, Madrid will still have a huge say in the transfer saga as they are keen to keep hold of the man who scored 44 goals in 46 appearances last season.

Club president Florentino Perez has reportedly said that he has ‘no doubt that they will end up reaching an agreement sooner or later’.

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It has been reported that Benzema is looking for a ‘considerable salary increase’ plus a two-year deal in order to stay with the reigning European champions.

After missing the 2022 World Cup due to injury, Benzema is now back fit and hoping to play a key role for Madrid in the remainder of the season.

Manager Carlo Ancelotti said: “We’ve got Benzema back and that’s good. He came back on December 10.

“He knows that his first leg of the season has not been good and he wants to show things in the second. He’s going to show all his quality in this stretch of the season.”