Real Madrid have identified Karim Benzema’s successor

Karim Benzema is one of the best players in Real Madrid history and him winning the Ballon d’Or this year was the pinnacle of his career, individually. For so many years, the Frenchman had worked tirelessly in the background while others grabbed the headlines. Finally, it was his turn for the spotlight and to be recognised as one of the best of his generation.

At the same time though, next week, Benzema is set to turn 35 years of age and he is pretty much in the twilight of his career. We have seen the Frenchman struggle badly with injuries this season itself.

Real Madrid do not have proper back up option for him either. Sooner or later, they will have to bring in his successor though. And it looks like they might have identified one in the form of Cody Gakpo.

As reported by AS, Dutch footballing legend, Rene Van de Kerkhof, said on the podcast that he shares with his brother:

"“I have reliable Spanish sources who report that Real wants to get Cody Gakpo as Benzema’s successor.”"

Real Madrid have identified the successor to Benzema in the form of Gakpo

Gakpo has been in tremendous form for both PSV and the Netherlands national team in recent times. And even though he might not be an out-and-out striker, his ability to put the ball in the back of the net might see him move more centrally over his career. He has all the physical attributes to play the role as well.

According to stats from Transfermarkt, Gakpo has scored 13 goals and provided 17 assists for PSV in 24 appearances this season.

On top of that, he scored 3 times for the Netherlands at the World Cup as well, one in each of their group stage games, and was one of the brightest players at the tournament.

It will be interesting to see if Real Madrid can sign him or not. A move in January seems unlikely but he could be a real possibility in the summer.