Erik ten Hag has already dropped hint over potential Karim Benzema deal amid Man Utd and Chelsea links

Erik ten Hag has already dropped a transfer hint amid rumours linking Karim Benzema with a move to Manchester United.

The 23/24 season has so far been a disappointment for Ten Hag as his men have failed to improve on their performances from the last campaign.

United are currently seventh in the Premier League table, 13 points off leaders Liverpool.

In Europe, the Red Devils’ Champions League campaign was a disaster as they finished bottom of their group.

Now, with the January transfer window in full swing, United have been linked with a loan move for former Real Madrid star Benzema, who is currently playing for Saudi Professional League side Al Ittihad.

Benzema has so far scored 15 goals in 24 appearances since ditching Europe for the Middle East back in the summer.

Aside from United, the 36-year-old has also been linked with a move to Chelsea.

However, Red Devils boss Ten Hag has already made his feelings clear on what players he wants at the club.

The Dutchman said: “If you want to perform, you need hungry players.

“I already said, we need personalities and players who are very hungry to fight for the badge, so fight for this club, and to do this in the team.”

Ten Hag added: “I think it is not about discipline, it is about normal behaviour.

“It is about that, so what you can expect from a top professional.”

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Whilst we are not questioning Benzema’s hunger to win, it could be that Ten Hag would want to target younger players who all have a point to prove.

Benzema has won everything possible including La Liga titles, Champions League trophies and the prestigious Ballon d’Or award, therefore, the striker no longer has a point to prove.

United will be back in action on 28 January when they take on either Newport County or Eastleigh in the fourth round of the FA Cup.