Real Madrid’s most reliable bench-warmer could be heading to the Emirates to save Arsene Wenger’s skin, as all eyes are focused on what the under-pressure Frenchmen is going to do in the looming transfer window.
The Arsenal boss showed an interest in Karim Benzema before he joined the spanish giants, which was greeted with the generic ‘flattered to be linked with such a club etc etc’ reply from the former Lyon striker.
Used sparingly this season by Mourinho, the 23 year old has excelled when he has been called upon off the bench. Netting an astounding 26 goals in 48 appearances in all competitions, making this season’s goal return, the second best haul of his career.
Despite the lack of playing time, it seems Benzema is determined not to leave Madrid with his tail between his legs. He has been quoted as saying ‘I do not think Real Madrid want to sell. Mourinho is confident in me. Next season you will see the best from Benzema’.
Wenger remains undeterred by these comments, admitting that in his humble opinion ‘he is one of the best in the world’. A bid of around £20million is expected to tempt Los Blanco’s into cashing in on a squad player in order to fund the transfer of potential signings in the summer.
It remains to be seen however whether a player Wenger thinks so highly of could fit into his preferred formation. History has shown us the Arsenal coach is uncomfortable changing his team’s style of play. With Van Persie occupying the central striking role, Benzema could be used out onto the wing, losing his much needed predatory instincts in the middle. More worryingly though for young French forward is the fact that he could be spending the majority of his time in the dugout getting to know the Arsenal backroom staff.
