Latest Chelsea transfer news as former Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema has apparently made a decision regarding his future amid rumours that he could leave Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad
Karim Benzema has reportedly made a decision regarding his future amid links of a transfer to either Chelsea or Arsenal. The 36-year-old striker has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League during the January transfer window.
Both Arsenal and Chelsea have been credited as potential suitors for Benzema, as have Manchester United.
Reports in recent weeks have speculated that Benzema could leave At-Ittihad before the window closes. The 2022 Ballon d'Or winner only left Real Madrid last summer to complete a move to the Saudi Pro League.
Now The Athletic has stated that Benzema will remain with Al-Ittihad beyond the current transfer window. As a result, it seems unlikely that either Arsenal or Chelsea will be bringing the striker to the Premier League before the window closes.
Premier League clubs have until 11pm on Thursday to complete any last-minute deals. Throughout January, neither the Blues nor the Gunners have made any new additions to their squads for the second half of the season.
There were rumours that Benzema could remain in Saudi Arabia, but join another club in the same league as Al-Ittihad. However, the transfer deadline for the Saudi Pro League passed on Wednesday, meaning clubs from the league will not be making any more deals until the summer at the earliest.
Since making a move to Saudi Arabia last summer, Benzema has scored 12 goals in 20 appearances. The former Real Madrid star was not the only player to be linked with a move away from the Saudi Pro League having only recently arrived in the country.
Jordan Henderson left Liverpool last summer in a £12 million deal to join Al-Ettifaq. After just a few months, the former Anfield captain left the club to move to Ajax in the Eredivisie on a permanent deal.
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