Liverpool Transfer News: Karim Benzema 'Keen' on Summer Move, Top Reds Rumours

Real Madrid are reportedly ready to cash in on Karim Benzema in order to fund a move for Paris Saint-Germain forward Edinson Cavani, a craving which could significantly impact Liverpool.

This unlikely story is reported by Arsenal" target="_blank">Jack Wilson of the Daily Star, who suggests the Reds may benefit from a potential £40 million move for Benzema. Wilson notes that Benzema "is reportedly keen on a move to the Premier League after becoming frustrated with Real boss Carlo Ancelotti." The same report also suggests "any deal is some way off happening."

Benzema continues to be linked with a move to Anfield, per Chisanga Malata of the Daily Star. Reds boss Brendan Rodgers recently played down the likelihood of him spending big during the January transfer window, however, as told to talkSPORT's Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast show (via Nick Rostron-Pike): "It will be quiet. I’ve said before we wouldn’t be doing much over the course of January. There are players who are linked with Liverpool all the time. That may be agents looking to get their player a move. For us, it will be pretty quiet."

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This quote also indicates a move for Napoli's Gonzalo Higuain is unlikely, per Jamie Anderson of the Daily Express. The Argentinian recently indicated he is looking to remain with the Serie A club, telling Sky Sport (h/t Italian specialist Gianluca Di Marzio): "My future? I'm happy here and I have a contract."

Liverpool certainly need a top finisher to improve their chances of retaining Champions League football. Many suspect the imminent return of Daniel Sturridge will prove to be a massive boost, but even so, someone to mop up chances in the opposition's area could prove useful.

Squawka recently provided a breakdown of the side's misfiring forward options:

Benzema's physical presence would provide a focal point for Sturridge and Raheem Sterling to bounce off, but it seems far-fetched to suggest he would exchange likely success at the Bernabeu to join Liverpool's cause.

The 27-year-old has scored 14 goals and has provided nine assists in 27 matches this campaign. It's likely other elite sides will try to secure his transfer if he becomes available, with PSG also linked to the hardworking player, per David Wright of the Daily Express. Liverpool simply cannot compete with the French club's finances for an individual who could break the bank.

Higuain is a more realistic target and possesses the clinical nature to improve Liverpool's chances inside the box. He's scored 14 in 26 this season, despite a poor start to the campaign in which he netted just three during his first 12 appearances.

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Rodgers' switch to a 3-4-3 formation has significantly aided Liverpool's play. The club have only lost one of their last 14 matches and are finally suggesting they can make the Premier League's top four.

It's no coincidence this run has coincided with Mario Balotelli's absence from the team, a player who should be sold, according to B/R UK's Andy Brassell:

The Merseyside club spent heavily during the summer and are likely to need further investment at the conclusion of the season. January is a difficult month to do business; prices are inflated and options remain minimal, as noted in Rodgers' comments.

Both Benzema and Higuain have the quality to become key players at Anfield, but right now, neither transfer appears likely.

Stats via WhoScored unless otherwise noted.