'They wanted to sell Benzema to Arsenal' - Luis Suarez reveals how he nearly joined Real Madrid before Barcelona move

During an interview with DelSol, Suarez opened up on a potential move to Real Madrid which hinged on Karim Benzema leaving to join Arsenal. The legendary Barcelona forward explained how his infamous bite on Giorgio Chiellini in the 2014 World Cup and subsequent ban turned Los Blancos off a move for him and meant Benzema stayed in Madrid.

On a potential move to Madrid, Suarez said: "Before the 2014 World Cup, Real Madrid wanted me as they wanted to sell Benzema to Arsenal. Barcelona at the time was [also] interested and Luis Enrique was pressing.

"The bite case happened and Barcelona continued to want to sign me despite the punishment. I will always be grateful for that."

Suarez went on to join Barcelona and form a front three with Messi and Neymar which became one of the greatest attacking trios in the sport's history. However, Madrid's patience with Benzema did come true eventually and the Frenchman departed the club having won a Ballon d'Or, five Champions Leagues and four La Liga titles. Arsenal, meanwhile, signed Danny Welbeck that summer and have yet to really solve the striker problem that has plagued them for years.

Suarez has recently signed for Inter Miami and has joined up again with Lionel Messi. Had the Uruguayan made that move to Madrid to play alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, he may well have been tempted to join Al-Nassr instead.