Real Madrid to sign a new striker as backup for aging Benzema

Real Madrid are in the market for a new striker due to Karim Benzema advancing in age and his niggling injury issues.

Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti said the club has considered the striker situation and will address it in the summer transfer window.

Asides from Benzema, Los Blancos do not have another recognised number nine within the squad whom Ancelotti trusts.

The Italian manager has used Mariano Diaz sparingly, and he will leave the club this summer when his contract expires.

Ancelotti has played Eden Hazard as a centre-forward in the absence of Benzema. But the Belgian attacker is not a striker.

Madrid need to add a new striker to provide competition for Benzema and serve as the back-up option.

At Ancelotti’s press conference ahead of their clash with Real Sociedad, he said (via Madrid’s official website): “The club’s future project is to sign a nine because Karim is at the age he is. 

“We hadn’t thought about it until his recent trouble. The attacking line-up worked very well last year, as it is this year. 

“Benzema has had ups and downs, but Vini Jr and Rodrygo have both progressed. Asensio’s also been doing very well. Our strikeforce hasn’t been the problem over the last two years.”

The striker is doubtful for the Real Sociedad game, but his manager believes there is a possibility the 35-year-old will start.

Ancelotti said he is a bit tired but may play if there are no real problems. He said he wants to rotate the squad and give some non-regular starters game time.

It is unclear who the club will sign to play as Benzema’s understudy.

The player must have enough quality to play for the 14-time Champions League winners. He must also be comfortable playing second-fiddle to the legendary Madrid striker.

Whatever Madrid do, they must also consider Brazilian prodigy Endrick. The Palmeiras forward will arrive in 2024 after they spent around €72 million to sign him.