Man Utd ‘hold Karim Benzema talks’ with Red Devils set to rival Chelsea in four-horse transfer race
MANCHESTER UNITED are reportedly in a four-horse race to sign Karim Benzema.
The Red Devils are in the market for an experienced forward this month to compete with Rasmus Hojlund.
The Old Trafford side have been linked with the likes of Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting of Bayern Munich as well as Benzema.
Marca have claimed that Manchester United have held talks with the Frenchman’s entourage and Al-Ittihad.
The report claims that they will have to fight off interest from Arsenal and Benzema’s former club Lyon.
Chelsea have also been linked with an interest in the former Real Madrid striker.
Benzema, 36, is currently training by himself after he returned 17 days late to the club from holiday.
The Spanish outlet has suggested that Al-Ittihad are keen to keep hold of their marquee signing.
It says that the Jeddah club are hoping that Benzema performs a U-turn and comes back.
One issue is “not money” but details in Benzema’s contracts that are outside of football as well as a “pride component”.
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However, manager Marcelo Gallardo is not counting on the striker in the meantime.
Since joining Al-Ittihad, Benzema has only made 20 appearances.
However, he has maintained his prolific form with 12 goals and five assists.
Former Manchester United striker Andy Cole has insisted that the club should sign Benzema, even if it was just for “a training session”.
The Blues have been tipped to sign Benzema as they look to add a World Class forward to complete Mauricio Pochettino‘s attack.
Arsenal are looking for more firepower as the frontline of Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka have struggled to replicate their goalscoring form from last season.
Lyon are in desperate need of a lift after a disastrous start to the Ligue 1 campaign has left them 16th in the table.
A return to his first club could see Benzema rescue the team from possible relegation and back up the league.
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