Real Madrid fans will be delighted to know that Karim Benzema has agreed terms to keep playing for them beyond the season that is about to start. Nevertheless, they might be surprised to know that the footballer had reasons not to sign a longer deal despite being offered one by the team's hierarchy.
According to a report by Spanish newspaper As, the French star was offered a two-year contract extension, but the footballer was inclined to sign for only one year. The reason? He chose not to commit himself to a long deal because he will turn 35 once his new deal expires, and he wants to see how fit he is before extending his history with the Spanish giants.
The report also quoted a source within the club, which stated that Benzema does not want to be a burden for the team where he has played since 2009.
"He has made it clear in the deal that if he does not feel in the right shape he will leave the club," the report adds.
Benzema is ranked as Los Blancos' fifth best scorer of all time, with 279 goals to his name. If he is able to replicate his last season (30 goals across all comps), he might be able to surpass Santillana (290) and the legendary Alfredo Di Stefano (308) and end the season as the third best striker in team history. The only players ahead of him would be former team-mates Raúl González (323) and Cristiano Ronaldo (451)
