Real Madrid News
Real Madrid set to complete the contract extension of Benzema until 2024 – Romano
Karim Benzema has been one of the most consistent performers in European football over the past couple of years.
Ever since the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo, the Frenchman has come to the fore and has led the line responsibly for Real Madrid. His performances were critical in helping Los Blancos secure the UEFA Champions League title last season.
In light of Benzema’s consistent goalscoring plaudits, Real Madrid are keen on extending his current contract that expires at the end of the season.
This has been reported by Fabrizio Romano, who suggests the European champions are expecting Benzema to secure the 2022 edition of the Ballon d’Or. As such, they are keen on celebrating his victory by handing him a new contract.
Although Benzema’s performances merit him a longer contract, Real Madrid have a strict one-year policy for players past the age of 30. The Frenchman should be no exception, especially ahead of a 2023 summer window that could see the club invest in a new goalscorer.
Kylian Mbappe was heavily linked with a move to Santiago Bernabeu in the summer, but the attacker opted to remain at Paris Saint-Germain. It appears Erling Haaland has become the latest obsession for Los Blancos, with the Man City starlet reportedly having a release clause worth €200 million embedded in his contract.
The release clause can be triggered from 2024 onwards, which checks out well with the length of Benzema’s potential new contract.
In the meantime, the veteran forward will be keen on getting back on track after returning from a short injury layoff. He made his return in the 1-1 draw with Osasuna. Although the 34-year-old failed to find the back of the net, he could be in the thick of things when Real Madrid take on Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League tonight.
There is no secret that Real Madrid might consider a move for a new striker in the coming summer. With Karim Benzema slowly nearing the end of his career, the club are looking for a viable alternative ahead of the new season.
Carlo Ancelotti has been left impressed by the performances of Rodrygo in the centre forward position. But the club could still use the services of a more recognised option in the number nine position.
The Spanish giants are reportedly assessing La Liga for a potential low-cost option. But they are also open to looking through in other leagues, in their bid to add more depth in the attacking department.
To that end, Fabrizio Romano claims Real Madrid are eyeing a swoop for Roberto Firmino. The Liverpool star has become the latest player to be shortlisted by Los Blancos, with his current contract at Liverpool expiring at the end of the season.
Formerly of TSG Hoffenheim, Firmino has a stellar track record of performing in Europe. He has scored 110 goals in 361 competitive matches during his time at Liverpool, winning the Premier League and the Champions League title.
A centre forward by trade, Roberto is known for his tactical flexibility and the ability to shift into wider areas to build up the player.
It makes him an appealing target for Real Madrid, who would prefer a versatile striker in their ranks that can not only provide cover for Benzema but also the likes of Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo.
Real Madrid, though, are yet to hold any discussions with Roberto Firmino just yet. He has just been added to the list of targets and one would expect the Spanish giants to make a move once the season is over and the player becomes a free agent.
