The British newspaper "Mirror" reported that Manchester United's management has ruled out the idea of signing French striker Karim Benzema from Saudi club Al-Ittihad during the ongoing winter transfer window. Earlier reports suggested that Benzema was a candidate to join the "Red Devils" in January on a six-month loan.
The newspaper indicated that Manchester United officials did not contact Benzema's representatives (36 years old) regarding a move to "Old Trafford" due to his age and his salary, which is estimated at £86 million per season.
Manchester United is looking to sign a striker on loan this month, as coach Erik ten Hag's team is among the lowest scorers in the Premier League this season, with only 24 goals in total. Benzema has faced criticism from the media and fans in Saudi Arabia due to his decline in performance this season, as well as Al-Ittihad's early exit from the FIFA Club World Cup.
The absence of Karim Benzema from Al-Ittihad's training on Friday sparked controversy after the team returned from vacation and began training camp two days ago in Dubai without the French striker.
