Benzema has received permission from Real Madrid to attend the World Cup final if France qualify

Benzema has received permission from Real Madrid to attend the World Cup final if France qualify.

Former England international Glen Johnson has backed Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford to replace Karim Benzema at Real Madrid, as he described the move as “a no-brainer”.

Europe’s top clubs have begun to show an interest in making a move for Rashford, as they look to tempt him away from Old Trafford. The 25-year-old is technically out of contract on June 30 but United have the option of an additional year.

Erik ten Hag confirmed that the Reds are looking to exercise that option after their warm-weather training camp in Spain. Yet United know that unless they are able to tie down Rashford to a long-term deal, their top goalscorer in the Premier League could start to be tempted with a move away from the club.

And Johnson thinks that Rashford is the perfect person to fill the gap left behind by Benzema when the Frenchman eventually leaves the Bernabeu.

He told GGRecon : “Well it’s a massive void [when Benzema leaves], let’s put it that way. I’m a massive fan of Rashford and when he presses and he’s at his best, then he’s unstoppable.

According to the Spanish publication Nacional, Manchester United are prepared to pay Benzema a “crazy salary” in a bid to bring him to Old Trafford.

The report added that the Premier League giants will have to battle Paris Saint-Germain, who are also linked to the France international.Benzema won the Ballon d’Or winner back in October but has missed the 2022 FIFA World Cup so far due to injury.

The 34-year-old’s current contract with Real Madrid will expire in the summer of 2023.