Arsenal and Chelsea Consider Loan Deal for Benzema

Karim Benzema, the 36-year-old French striker, could be on the move, with both Arsenal and Chelsea reportedly considering a short-term loan deal. However, Manchester United has shown no interest in securing the services of the Golden Ball winner.

While TeamTalk's reports should be taken with a grain of salt, it's worth noting that there have been numerous transfer rumors surrounding Benzema, making the situation intriguing.

Contrary to previous rumors, it seems that Manchester United has no plans to bring in Benzema during the winter transfer window. Instead, it is Arsenal and Chelsea who have expressed interest in the legendary striker.

Manchester United is currently in the market for an experienced forward to lighten the burden on Marcus Rashford. However, they have decided not to pursue a deal for Benzema.

According to TEAMtalk, Arsenal is considering a temporary loan deal for Benzema, as manager Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his attacking options. With Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah struggling in front of goal this season, the Gunners are in need of a new number 9. However, financial fair play restrictions may hinder their ability to sign a permanent player during the winter transfer window. Therefore, a loan deal for Benzema makes sense, although his wages would be a sight to behold.

In addition, TeamTalk has confirmed that Chelsea is also interested in Benzema. The Blues, managed by Antonio Conte, are looking to trust in Tammy Abraham. However, a move for the experienced striker cannot be ruled out.

Analyzing Benzema's recent statistics, he has been in fine form. In the 2023-24 season, playing in the Saudi Arabian league, Benzema has made 15 appearances, all as a starter, with an average playing time of 82 minutes per game. He has scored 9 goals and provided 5 assists.

In terms of shooting, Benzema has attempted 65 shots, converting 9 of them into goals. He has missed 5 excellent scoring opportunities but has created 13 chances for his teammates, with 5 assists. He has also won 1 penalty and delivered 32 key passes. His passing accuracy stands at an impressive 84%, with an average of 43.6 touches per game.

Defensively, Benzema has completed 0.5 successful tackles per game and recovered possession 2.1 times, including 0.9 times in the opponent's third of the field. He has successfully dribbled past opponents 1.1 times per game, with a success rate of 49%. He has also won 2.7 duels per game, with a success rate of 49%.

Looking back at the 2022-23 season in La Liga, Benzema made 24 appearances, all as a starter, with an average playing time of 85 minutes per game. He scored 19 goals and provided 3 assists.

In terms of shooting, Benzema attempted 107 shots, converting 19 of them into goals. He missed 18 excellent scoring opportunities but created 14 chances for his teammates, with 3 assists. He also won 2 penalties and delivered 48 key passes. His passing accuracy stood at an impressive 87%, with an average of 56.1 touches per game.

Defensively, Benzema completed 0.4 successful tackles per game and recovered possession 0.6 times in the opponent's third of the field. He successfully dribbled past opponents 0.8 times per game, with a success rate of 48%. He won 2 duels per game, with a success rate of 38%.

Overall, Benzema's performances have been impressive, making him an attractive option for both Arsenal and Chelsea. While the reliability of TeamTalk's reports may be questioned, it is clear that there is significant interest surrounding the striker in the current transfer rumors and speculations.