How Benzema could help Man Utd sign dream striker this summer

Cameron Smith

• Updated: 21 Apr 2023 12:51 BST
• 3 min read

Real Madrid's decision to extend Karim Benzema's contract could inadvertently lead to Manchester United signing Atalanta's Rasmus Hojlund this summer.

Benzema's current deal at the Santiago Bernabeu is set to expire this summer, but a Ballon d'Or clause in his contract means Real Madrid are able to extend his stay by a further year, according to Spanish outlet AS.

The report states that Carlo Ancelotti's side have decided to activate this clause, with Benzema also reportedly happy to remain at the club for another 12 months.

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Real Madrid's decision to extend Benzema's contract means they are likely to pull out of the race for Atalanta forward Hojlund, who has been linked with a move to the Spanish giants.

With Benzema set to stay until 2024 and Brazilian wonderkid Endrick joining the club that same summer, Real Madrid may decide against pursuing Hojlund in favour of upgrading other areas of the pitch - such as closing a deal for Borussia Dortmund's Jude Bellingham.

As a result, it could give Man Utd the opportunity to sign Hojlund this summer.

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Hojlund to Man Utd?

The Denmark international is wanted by some of Europe's biggest clubs, including Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Juventus, but Man Utd remain in the hunt to land him in their search for a new striker.

Harry Kane and Victor Osimhen are both admired by the Red Devils, but Hojlund represents a far cheaper alternative, which would allow them to finance other moves in positions of need.

Hojlund has seven goals and three assists in 26 Serie A games this season.

With Real Madrid likely ruling themselves out of the race to sign the Danish wonderkid, it gives Man Utd additional hope in their efforts to land him.