Man Utd told one training session from Karim Benzema would make transfer for ex-Real Madrid striker ‘150%’ worthwhile – as exit talk in Saudi Arabia rages around Ballon d’Or winner

There is plenty of speculation to be found suggesting that 2022 Ballon d’Or winner Benzema will be on the move before the winter transfer window slams shut in Europe. The 36-year-old striker is said to have been frozen out at Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Ittihad.

He is being linked with a number of sides in England, including Arsenal and Chelsea, and may be about to take on a Premier League challenge in the latter stages of his distinguished career. Ex-United striker Andy Cole would like to see Benzema at Old Trafford, with there still plenty for him to offer.

The 1999 Treble winner has told Betfred when asked if he would be looking to do a deal: “150%. I would sign him if it was only for a training session. I was very surprised when he left Real Madrid in the summer, but I understand why it happened. That money he’s earning in Saudi Arabia is generational wealth. It’s for his kids and his kids’ kids. When you’re at that age in your career and you’ve already won four La Liga titles, five Champions League trophies and the Ballon d’Or, I can understand why he went to Saudi. Could he do it in the Premier League at his age? 100% considering the way he looks after himself. If Manchester United have the opportunity to sign him, then they should definitely try and make that happen.”

United are also being linked with reinforcements in defence, amid links to the likes of Jarrad Branthwaite and Matthijs de Ligt, but Cole is less convinced that additions are required in that area. He added on the talk of Branthwaite being prised away from Premier League rivals: “He’s done really well for Everton this season. When you’re performing for a struggling side and people are talking about your performances in a positive light, then you must be playing very well. However, the question is, is he better than Harry Maguire? Harry Maguire since he’s come back into Manchester United’s team this season has played like the Harry Maguire we saw at Leicester City. Take away Jarrad’s age, is he better than Harry Maguire? Will he improve Manchester United? These are the questions that you need to ask yourself as a prospective buyer. If you look at Manchester City’s centre-backs, are they all top drawer? They allowed Aymeric Laporte, who’s a brilliant player, to go to Saudi Arabia in the summer because he couldn’t get in the team. That tells you everything. Manchester United need to buy players that improve their side because if they continue to buy players of a similar standard to what they’ve already got, then they’re not going to move forward.”

Dutch coach Erik ten Hag will be given the rest of the January window at Old Trafford, but he needs to start finding value in the transfer market while bringing the best out of those at his disposal if he is to get a chance to spend any money invested by Sir Jim Ratcliffe in the next window.