How Arsenal will line up with Karim Benzema

Cameron Smith

Updated: 22 Jan 2024 17:58 GMT
3 min read

Arsenal are one of several clubs monitoring Karim Benzema’s situation in Saudi Arabia, with the Frenchman currently unsettled at Al-Ittihad.

Article continues under the video

Benzema, 34, returned to team training on Friday and his representatives have stated that he is willing to wait it out until the summer transfer window before pushing to leave.

However, Fabrizio Romano has claimed that the situation “remains tense,” leaving the door open for Arsenal to push forward and secure a loan deal for the Frenchman.

The transfer expert did reveal that Benzema will be required to take a major pay cut in order to return to Europe and stated that he’s not heard anything regarding Arsenal’s interest, but contrary reports suggest that Mikel Arteta’s side are keen on landing the Real Madrid legend as a short-term solution.

Gabriel Jesus has only scored three Premier League goals in 16 appearances so far this season, while Eddie Nketiah has never managed to cement himself as a regular in Arsenal’s preferred starting XI.

Links with Benzema therefore make sense, with the France international viewed as a perfect solution to Arsenal’s striker problem as they compete with Manchester City and Liverpool for the Premier League title.

Lyon are set to provide a major threat in Arsenal’s bid to sign Benzema, however, as they are exploring a move to bring him back to the club, according to The Athletic.

How would Arsenal line up if Karim Benzema joins?

If Arsenal are able to sign Benzema on loan, Arteta will be blessed with one of the best strikers in world football.

David Raya would remain in between the sticks, while Benjamin White, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes and Oleksandr Zinchenko would keep their place in the back four.

© ProShots - Karim Benzema has been linked with a move to Arsenal

A midfield trio of Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz will be tasked with aiding the defence and supplying chances for a front three of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Benzema.

Jesus’ versatility means he will be able to provide Arteta with an able Saka back-up, something Arsenal don’t really have at present.