Chelsea is reportedly considering a winter transfer swoop for Real Madrid icon Karim Benzema, who is contemplating a departure from Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad. The 36-year-old striker, having joined Al-Ittihad in June, has enjoyed a prolific spell, scoring 15 goals in 24 matches. However, recent reports suggest that Benzema is finding it challenging to settle in his new surroundings, prompting the desire for a potential return to European football.

The departure of Jordan Henderson from Al-Ettifaq to Ajax has reportedly influenced Benzema’s considerations. Chelsea, in their pursuit of a consistent goalscorer, has now set their sights on the experienced French striker. Benzema’s familiarity with Stamford Bridge could make a potential move appealing, especially considering his impressive performances against Chelsea in the Champions League.

Despite Chelsea’s interest, Al-Ittihad appears reluctant to part ways with Benzema after just six months. The striker had signed a lucrative three-year deal with the Saudi club, reportedly earning an astonishing £3.5 million per week, translating to over £170 million annually. While financial incentives favor a prolonged stay in Saudi Arabia, Benzema, inspired by Henderson’s recent transfer maneuver, is exploring his options, with Chelsea emerging as a potential destination for the seasoned forward.

Karim Benzema

Karim Benzema

Forwarder

France

Age: 37

185 cm

81 kg

Season 2023/2024
Played 21 11 Missed
Minutes 1718 81.8 Avg
Goals 9 0.4 Avg
Assist 6 0.3 Avg
Attempt 39 1.9 Avg
Passes 643 30.675.0% AvgSucc
Yellow 1 0.0 Avg
Red 0 0.0 Avg

This season he played in total 15 times for 1212 minutes for Pro League.

Karim Benzema scored 9 goals for Al Ittihad. He procured 4 assists. He received no yellow cards and no red cards.

His team is currently 7th in Pro League. In the last match Al Ittihad lost 5-2 against Al Nassr. The next match in Pro League will be against Al Tai.

Al Ittihad performance and stats

Al Ittihad

Manager: Marcelo Gallardo
Rank 5th
Win 15
Draw 5
Loss 11
Goals 56-48
Diff 8

Al Ittihad is currently 7th in the Pro League with 28 points.

In the last 18 games, it has won 8 times, drawn 4 times, and lost 6 times. In its last match, Al Ittihad lost 2-5 against Al Nassr.​​

It has a positive goal difference after scoring 34 goals and conceding 26.​

Al Ittihad will play the next match in Pro League against Al Tai on Saturday 30th of December in Hail. The prediction is Al Ittihad winning the match.​

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