Arsenal is actively exploring the possibility of securing a loan deal for Karim Benzema, the Al-Ittihad striker who is considering a return to European football during the winter transfer window. The Gunners are in search of a prominent center-forward to strengthen their chances of challenging for the Premier League title.

While a move for Brentford’s Ivan Toney appears unlikely due to the high price tag and the player’s commitment to staying with his current club until the summer, Getafe has ruled out selling Borja Mayoral, and acquiring Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna would require a significant financial outlay of at least £50 million. Given the constraints of Financial Fair Play, Arsenal may prioritize a loan deal for a striker, and Benzema represents an ambitious target.

According to reports, Benzema is reportedly unsettled at Al-Ittihad, the Saudi Pro League champions, and is attracting interest from Real Madrid, Lyon, and Manchester United for a potential loan move. Arsenal should actively pursue the French striker, who had an exceptional season with Real Madrid last year, recording 31 goals and six assists in just 43 appearances.

Since his transfer to Al-Ittihad last summer, Benzema has continued his impressive form, scoring 12 goals and providing five assists. However, he now desires a return to European football. Arsenal has long been linked with Benzema, and this could be an opportune time to secure his services, even if it is on a temporary basis until the end of the season.

Despite being 36 years old, Benzema would offer an upgrade to Arsenal’s striking options, outperforming Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah in terms of goal conversion rate. While he may not provide the same level of high pressing as Jesus, Benzema’s clinical finishing and intelligent positioning make him a genuine threаt inside the box.

A loan move for Benzema would present a low-rιsk investment for Arsenal, contingent on the striker accepting a substantial reduction in his reported £1.66 million per week wages. It is unlikely that Arsenal would be willing to offer more than £250,000 per week. Nevertheless, Benzema’s world-class abilities would undoubtedly enhance Arsenal’s scoring prowess and significantly improve their chances of securing the title.