Arsenal are attempting an unexpected move to rejuvenate their Premier League title challenge as they go into the transfer market hoping to sign former Real Madrid striker and Karim Benzema from Al Ittihad.

Several reports claim that the French forward, who moved to Saudi Arabia from Real Madrid in the summer, is currently not enjoying his time at Al Ittihad, and he is hoping to take a break from the Saudi Pro League by returning to Europe.

Chelsea were the first team to show interest in Karim Benzema, but now they would have to fight for the signing of the former Ballon d’or winner. Chelsea have been below par this season as they currently shuttle the middle of the Premier League table with an apparent lack of experienced striking force up front.

The Gunners need competent competition for Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah, who are the current strikers at the Emirates Stadium.

Benzema started his career with Lyon, but he was more successful at Real Madrid, where he is the second all-time leading scorer charts behind only Cristiano Ronaldo after netting 354 times for the La Liga side.

However, Arsenal are interested in signing Karim Benzema only on a loan deal as they have previously been linked with Brentford striker Ivan Toney, who only returned to football on Wednesday after completing his 8-month ban due to a betting scandal.

Mikel Arteta’s side have dropped their interest in Ivan Toney after Brentford demanded around 100 million pounds for the English striker. The London club decided against meeting such a valuation, and although they have shown interest in Nigeria’s Napoli striker Victor Osihmen, they have also decided against signing the reigning Africa Player of the Year.

It is left to be seen what Arsenal will do as regards Benzema but they will return to action on Saturday against Crystal Palace in the Premier League.

Daniel Ademiju Idowu