Manchester United has opted out of signing Karim Benzema due to his ‘sky-high’ salary expectations. Currently sitting in eighth place on the Premier League table, the Red Devils face a goal-scoring struggle this season, exacerbated by Anthony Martial’s 10-week absence following groin surgery.
With Rasmus Hojlund standing as their sole fit recognized striker, Erik ten Hag considered the possibility of recruiting Benzema from the Saudi Pro League.
However, reports now confirm that Manchester United is steering clear of the 36-year-old French striker, primarily citing concerns about his extravagant £86 million annual salary and potential violations of Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations.
Benzema, who transferred to Al-Ittihad in the Saudi league from Real Madrid last summer on a free deal, has shown prowess on the field, notching 12 goals in 20 appearances. Despite his individual success, Al-Ittihad finds itself in a challenging seventh place after a recent string of poor performances.
Adding to the complications, Benzema faced exile from the squad after returning from vacation a staggering 17 days late. This prompted his omission from the team’s trip to Dubai, as manager Marcelo Gallardo took a decisive stance.