Ex-Chelsea defender Glen Johnson says his former club must “try and sign” Al-Ittihad striker Karim Benzema on loan if he becomes available this month.

The Blues have been linked with the 5-times Champions League winner and, asked by Betfred whether the London club should pursue the Frenchman, Johnson replied:

“100 percent. Absolutely. He’s the type of big-name striker you need because he’s won almost everything in the game. He’s a goal machine, so you’d expect him to adapt easily to the Premier League. If a loan deal is the only option, then Chelsea have to try and sign him.”

Benzema only moved to Saudi Arabia from Real Madrid last summer but there have been rumours that the 36-year-old could be open to returning to Europe during the January transfer window.

Chelsea are not the only English club interested in Benzema

Arsenal have also been credited with an interest in the France international. Like Chelsea, the Gunners have limited funds but they are keen on recruiting a new No.9.

With Benzema having scored 432 goals in his senior career, he does seem like a great choice if a team are looking to add more firepower to their attack.

Other transfer targets are being considered

There are no guarantees that Benzema will be on the move in January. The striker’s lawyer has spoken out in recent days to say that, while the player is unhappy with how things have gone for Al-Ittihad on the pitch this season, leaving Saudi Arabia is not being considered at this moment in time.

Chelsea may, therefore, have to move on to alternatives before the transfer window shuts. Al-Ahli’s Roberto Firmino and Aston Villa’s Jhon Duran have been mentioned as other options if the Blues do decide to bring in a short-term solution upfront for the rest of the campaign.