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Manchester United 'turn down chance to sign Karim Benzema'

By Ben Sully | 25 January 2024

Man United 'turn down chance to sign Karim Benzema'

Manchester United reportedly turn down the chance to sign former Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema from Saudi Arabian side Al-Ittihad.

Manchester United have reportedly rejected the chance to sign Al-Ittihad forward Karim Benzema.

After spending 14 years at Real Madrid, Benzema left the Spanish giants in the summer to sign for Saudi Arabian side Al-Ittihad on a free transfer.

During his short time with the club, the 36-year-old has scored nine goals and provided five assists in 15 Saudi Pro League appearances.

While he has made a significant contribution, his side are currently in seventh place and 28 points adrift of leaders Al-Hilal.

Despite being in his first season with Al-Ittihad, there has been a suggestion that he is already looking to leave the Saudi Arabian club.

Al Ittihad's Karim Benzema applauds fans after the match on December 12, 2024 © Reuters

While Benzema has labelled those rumours as "false", he is currently being linked with the likes of Man United, Arsenal and Chelsea.

A recent report claimed that Man United's new CEO Omar Berrada could help facilitate a move for Benzema due to his close relationship with the owners of Al-Ittihad.

However, according to The Sun, the Red Devils have already turned down the chance to sign the former Real Madrid striker.

Man United are believed to be unwilling to discuss a potential deal due to Benzema's significant wages, with the 36-year-old earning around £86m a year.

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag reacts on December 26, 2023 © Reuters

The 20-time English champions are wary of meeting Financial Fair Play regulations, and as a result, they are reluctant to add Benzema's salary to their wage bill.

Nevertheless, Erik ten Hag could still bolster his attacking options before the transfer window closes on February 1.

Rasmus Hojlund is currently Man United's only fit senior centre-forward, with Anthony Martial set to miss around 10 weeks of action.

Martial has missed Man United's last seven matches through injury, and the club have now confirmed that he has undergone an operation on a groin issue.