Karim Benzema set for new Real Madrid contract

Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema is close to signing a new deal with the club, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

The 34-year-old’s existing contract expires next June, but his stay in the Spanish capital is set to be extended for another 12 months.

Alongside Vinicius Junior, Benzema has formed arguably the deadliest attacking duo in European football, with the players combining for over 100 direct goal contributions last season.

Per El Chiringuito TV, Madrid have a release clause for Manchester City’s Erling Braut Haaland, which can be triggered in 2024 when Benzema may wave goodbye to Santiago Bernabeu.

In the meantime, Madrid will be pleased to retain the services of their talisman as they prepare for a tough battle for domestic supremacy with Barcelona.

The Catalans bolstered their ranks significantly in the last transfer window and currently sit level on points with Los Blancos.

Off the back of an impressive campaign where he netted 44 times in 46 games across all competitions en route to winning the La Liga and the Champions League titles, Benzema picked up the UEFA Player of the Year award last month and is the clear favourite to win the Ballon d’Or accolade later this year.

Benzema has also started the current campaign in fine form with four goals and one assist in seven matches, although he did miss a crucial penalty in his side’s 1-1 draw against Osasuna on Sunday.

After seeing their 100% start to the season end last weekend, Madrid host Shakhtar Donetsk this evening aiming to move closer to a place in the Champions League round of 16.