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Topics: Karim Benzema, Lyon, Real Madrid, Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal, Saudi Pro League
Josh Lawless
Topics: Karim Benzema, Lyon, Real Madrid, Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal, Saudi Pro League
Karim Benzema is set to head back to his former club after links to Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal.
Benzema ended his 14-year spell with Real Madrid in the summer to sign for Saudi Pro League champions Al Ittihad.
The 2022 Ballon d'Or winner captains the side and has scored 15 goals in 24 appearances in all competitions.
However the Frenchman looks set to be joining Jordan Henderson in making a swift exit from Saudi Pro League.
Benzema has been touted as an option for Premier League sides in desperate need of a striker.
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It was reported that United were considering a loan deal for the 36-year-old.
However, the latest update on Benzema is that Lyon are trying to bring him back to the club.
The legendary striker joined the club's academy as a youngster and served as a ball boy.
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He then went on to score 66 goals in 148 goals for the first-team before sealing that big-money move to Real in 2009.
Fabrice Hawkins of RMC Sport says Lyon want a homecoming for Benzema but are aware that it will be a very complicated deal to complete.
They also know that they cannot pay him the same level of salary as what he has been earning at Al Ittihad.
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Benzema is said to be collecting £88 million per year as one of the best-paid players in Saudi, meaning he will have to take a substantial pay-cut.
He has been enjoying a winter break before Al Ittihad return to action on Sunday.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has updated fans on Arsenal's stance on Benzema, with his understanding being that there is no move on the cards at present.
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“For now there is nothing ongoing between Karim Benzema and Arsenal," he said in his Caught Offside column.
“If something changes in the next days, if Arsenal decide to bid and try to sign Benzema, I will let you know, but the reality today is that they are not working on this deal.
“In general, it’s one to watch in the next days because of the tense situation with Benzema and Al Ittihad, but for now there is nothing to report on a move to Arsenal. I’ll keep you updated.”