French star Karim Benzema has threatened his club Real Madrid with a departure if they sign Norwegian striker Erling Haaland from Borussia Dortmund during the upcoming summer transfer window. This potential signing would mean Benzema could find himself on the bench, despite being one of the most important players in the world in his position, as he performs roles that surpass those of any typical striker.
According to the Spanish newspaper "Nacional," Benzema, 34, spoke with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez and confirmed that he would leave the club if Haaland is brought in, and he would not accept being a substitute under any circumstances. The report added, "Benzema acted quickly, instructing his agent to open lines of communication with Paris Saint-Germain for a potential return to France if Haaland joins the royal club next summer."
Real Madrid president Perez had crafted a strategic plan for the club centered around combining Haaland with French forward Kylian Mbappe from Paris Saint-Germain to lead the team in the future.