Karim Benzema set to hold 'tense' talks with Al-Ittihad over his future; Premier League clubs on alert

The French striker remains in a tense situation with the club

A spectacular return to Lyon for French striker Karim Benzema has been suggested amid turmoil at Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad.

Benzema’s departure from Al Ittihad during the winter transfer window is a real possibility. This week, Manchester United, Arsenal, and Chelsea—the three Premier League teams—have all been linked.

One of the first well-known figures to relocate to Saudi Arabia last summer was the 36-year-old. Players like Jordan Henderson, Neymar, and N’Golo Kante swiftly trailed him.

Benzema was expected to play out his career in the Saudi Pro League, but after only six months in the Middle East, he was able to return to Europe.

Although “the situation is quite tense between the player and some people at Al Ittihad,” according to Fabrizio Romano, the relationship hasn’t broken “yet.”

In any case, “it is a tense situation,” but Ramon Planes, the newly appointed head of football, hopes to talk to Benzema and Marcelo Gallardo, the head coach of Al Ittihad, to find a solution.

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It wouldn’t be shocking if the former Ballon d’Or winner returned to Europe in January if things didn’t work out.

Romano continues, saying that the Saudi team does not want to approve Benzema’s exit, saying that it “will not be easy” if the player wishes to leave.

The Italian journalist also addressed the Premier League’s interest, stating that no “advanced negotiations” are underway and that there is nothing “concrete” about the rumours.

Johnson affirms the “tense” circumstances in Jeddah and speculates that Benzema is “considering” a temporary transfer to Lyon, a Ligue 1 team that is battling relegation.

Chelsea is probably “willing to give him a chance,” but a move to Lyon is “one to watch.”

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