Real Madrid planning shock raid on arch-rivals Atletico to sign Karim Benzema replacement - Reports

Real Madrid are reportedly eyeing Atletico Madrid loanee Joao Felix as a potential replacement for Karim Benzema.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, via Fichajes.net, the Portugal international could head to the Santiago Bernabeu for the 2023-24 season, given Benzema's uncertain future. The legendary French forward has a lucrative offer from a club in Saudi Arabia.

It's unclear if Benzema will stay with Los Blancos next season. Hence, Felix, who will return to Atletico Madrid this summer after his six-month loan spell expires at Chelsea, has emerged as an option.

Los Rojiblancos won't be opposed to sitting on the negotiation table for him, given his unflattering form for them since his arrival in 2019. The fact that they paid €126 million in transfer fees to SL Benfica for his services doesn't make things easier.

Felix is reportedly not in manager Diego Simeone's plans. Before his move to Chelsea, Felix played just 649 minutes of league football for Atletico this season, scoring four times and providing three assists.

The 23-year-old's contract at the Wanda Metropolitano expires in the summer of 2027. He will have big shoes to fill at Real Madrid if he's handpicked to replace Benzema, be it for a single season.

The 2022 Ballon d'Or winner has 353 goals and 165 assists in 647 appearances across competitions during his 14-year stay at the club. Even if he stays, Los Merengues will need to eventually replace the 35-year-old.

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Real Madrid boss defends Karim Benzema after Real Madrid's loss against Manchester City

Karim Benzema failed to impress as Manchester City beat Real Madrid 4-0 (5-1) in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League semifinals last month.

Manager Carlo Ancelotti was not prepared to criticise his star forward, though, saying via Marca (h/t Football-Espana):

"There’s no point in doubting Benzema. He had a bad game, but not only him. He’s still a legend at this club. The team wasn’t right on Wednesday, not just Karim."

Despite an injury-hit season, Benzema has still managed 30 goals and six assists in 42 games across competitions. However, he racked up just four goals and an assist in ten Champions League games.

Benzema was markedly ineffective in the second leg against the Cityzens, managing just one shot on target, completing one dribble and winning one of eight duels he contested.

Despite their failures in La Liga and Champions League, Real Madrid still won the Copa del Rey, FIFA Club World Cup and UEFA Super Cup this season.