Karim Benzema in line for shock Europe return as Turkish giants make ex-Real Madrid striker top transfer target

According to Turkish outlet Fotomac, the Yellow Canaries are preparing to make a bold move for Al-Ittihad striker Benzema as they look to fix their attacking struggles. Club president Sadettin Saran met with manager Domenico Tedesco to address the lack of goals, with the Italian insisting on signing a proven finisher. The board has now identified Benzema as their prime target for the mid-season window.

The Frenchman, who left Madrid in 2023 for a lucrative move to Al-Ittihad, remains one of football’s most decorated players. The 2022 Ballon d’Or winner boasts 36 trophies, including five Champions League titles, and continues to be admired across Europe. Despite earning €50 million (£42m/$55m) a year in Saudi Arabia, reports suggest the Frenchman is eager to finish his career back in Europe.

To accommodate Benzema’s arrival, Fenerbahce may offload underperforming forward Jhon Duran, who has failed to impress and has been sidelined since August. If Benzema’s representatives respond positively, negotiations could move quickly; otherwise, the club will turn to other strikers on their shortlist.

Alongside their interest in Benzema, Fenerbahce are also tracking 19-year-old Moroccan prodigy Yassine Gessime from Dunkerque. The youngster has impressed at the FIFA U-20 World Cup and is being monitored by several European sides including Marseille, Club Brugge and Union Saint-Gilloise.

Fenerbahce’s approach for Benzema is expected to intensify in the coming weeks as they prepare for the January transfer window. The move would mark a sensational European return for the veteran forward, offering both the player and the club a chance to reignite their fortunes.