Karim Benzema could face awkward reunion at Al Ittihad with player who caused Madrid derby scrap

Karim Benzema's new strike partner could be someone who he has history with, if recent reports are anything to go by.

Benzema left Real Madrid for Al Ittihad in the summer as one of many high-profile additions to the Saudi Pro League.

The 36-year-old has scored 15 goals in 24 games in all competitions but champions Al Ittihad are languishing in seventh place and are a massive 25 points off the top.

The Jeddah outfit are looking to improve matters by doing business in the January window, with Fabrizio Romano reporting that the club are working on a move for Atletico Madrid's Angel Correa.

An approach is expected imminently, with manager Marcelo Gallardo and sporting director Ramon Planes keen.

It's said the deal won't be an easy one to make happen but it could result in a very awkward reunion.

Image: Getty

Benzema and Correa came up against one another in various Madrid derbies over the years but there was one controversial moment.

In a 0-0 draw at the Civitas Metropolitan Stadium, Benzema went down under a challenge from Juanfran and Correa proceeded to smash the ball at his head from point blank range while he was lay on the turf.

Real players steamed in and a melee involving both teams ensued for a brief period.

Remarkably, Correa was let off the hook as the referee did not show him a yellow card.

Image: Getty

There were complaints to the fourth official, which led to Atletico staff getting angry on the touchline.

Correa was the subject of an offer from an unnamed Saudi club in the summer but Atletico refused to sanction a move.

However, Diario AS say Atletico are now willing to offload the player for a fee of £35 million.

Correa, who has been in Saudi Arabia for the Spanish Super Cup, would earn £52 million over three years.