Real Madrid Identify Benzema Replacement

Real Madrid are reportedly interested in signing Cody Gakpo as a long-term replacement for Karim Benzema, with Manchester United also in the running for the PSV Eindhoven star.

The Dutchman, 23, has seen his value and reputation surge this winter after an impressive showing at the Qatar World Cup, where he started all five games for the Netherlands, scoring three goals. The Netherlands were knocked out of the World Cup in the quarter-finals by Argentina, but the PSV Eindhoven forward left a lasting impression with his productivity in front of goal.

According to Spanish outlet Diario AS, PSV Eindhoven are waiting for Real Madrid to make an official offer for Cody Gakpo, who has been identified as an ideal alternative for Karim Benzema. Liverpool are also interested in Gakpo, while Man United boss Erik ten Hag is a big admirer of the PSV Eindhoven talent.

Real Madrid, however, have no plans to splash the cash in the upcoming January transfer window as they are confident the World Cup break would have helped Benzema to leave his injury problems behind and continue without any stoppages until the end of the season, the report adds.

Cody Gakpo to Real Madrid—A smart move?

Cody Gakpo has become one of the most highly sought-after forwards in European football after enjoying a strong season with PSV Eindhoven and then impressing at the World Cup in Qatar. He was the Dutch team’s best player during their World Cup campaign, thus, resulting in the player’s rise in stock ahead of the winter window.

Real Madrid are the latest entrant in the race for Gakpo, as Carlo Ancelotti wants him to become the long-term successor to Karim Benzema. Benzema, the current Ballon d’Or holder, has had his issues with injuries lately, which has seen him miss many games for Real Madrid this term as well as France’s run to the World Cup final.

Whilst Benzema is at the peak of his powers at 34, Los Blancos have started planning for the French striker’s future. They have identified Gakpo as that player, even though the Dutchman is more of a wide forward than a striker. But his quality in front of goal is undeniable, as evidenced by 12 goals and 14 assists for PSV in all competitions this season.

Gakpo has shown himself to be an outstanding young talent in the last 15-18 months, and it seems inevitable that he’ll earn himself a big move before too long. He has the qualities to become a key long-term signing for Real Madrid, competing and developing with the likes of Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr. Plus, the Netherlands international would be able to learn a lot under a lethal finisher like Benzema.

As clubs such as Man United, Liverpool and many more lurking in the background, Real Madrid must accelerate their pursuit of Gakpo and not wait until next summer to get his signature.