Man City points deduction FFP threat may answer Arsenal Karim Benzema transfer question
Karim Benzema could be on the move this transfer window and Arsenal are one of several clubs linked with the former Real Madrid striker. But can the Gunners really thrash out a deal between now and February 1?
football.london understands that the club are surveying the loan market for potential signings that could offer some temporary support as Mikel Arteta's side challenge for the Premier League title and Champions League. Benzema, of course, would undoubtedly give the north Londoners some much-needed quality up front and perhaps be an upgrade on Gabriel Jesus, Eddie Nketiah, Kai Havertz and Leandro Trossard.
Financial Fair Play is a concern for owner Stan Kroenke and technical director Edu, however. This was seen last summer when Arsenal moved for David Raya, the Brentford goalkeeper they signed on loan with the intention of buying outright 12 months later.
Benzema’s current wage packet at Al-Ittihad stands at €100million (£85.84million) per season, according to Marca. Therefore, if Arsenal were to sign the Frenchman on loan today on the same terms through until June 30, it would cost the club approximately £38.9million if indeed they were required to take on the full pay package.
For a six month loan it's not yet clear whether Arsenal can do such a deal, given all signs point towards the club being wary of breaching profitability and sustainability regulations (PSR). This is important to note given the news earlier this week that Everton and Nottingham Forest were charged with a single breach for the three-year period ending in the 2022/23 season.
Both clubs have been referred to an independent commission and, if found guilty, could be given a points deduction. Everton were hit with a 10-point deduction in November for
Read on football.london
