Real Madrid Zidane says the striker is untouchable

Regardless of the potential arrival of Kylian Mbappe to Real Madrid, Karim Benzema is expected to re-sign with the club ahead the upcoming season.

Since joining the club in 2009 from Lyon, the striker has continued to reiterate his desire to play for them, and the arrival of a certain 18-year-old from AS Monaco will not change that mentality.

With his intentions clear, Zinedine Zidane will be keen to renew the 29-year-old's contract with both parties reportedly agreeing on that renewal taking place imminently.

Benzema had already seen his contract extended and improved in 2014 and now he is set to be rewarded once again.

Currently ending in 2019, the Frenchman will see his contract stretched to either the 2021 or 2022 season, subsequently ending speculation surrounding who will make way for Mbappe's possible switch.

Zidane is aware that the task of rotating minutes around the two France internationals, Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale would be a challenge, especially as the potential new signing would wish for continued playing time.

Nonetheless, Los Blancos' powerful striker has always been a key component to the club's attack, with the coach favouring Benzema over Alvaro Morata last season.

Even in the player's toughest moments of a long arduous season, Zidane came to his fellow countrymen's defence, despite the forward being the first to be subbed ahead of Bale and Ronaldo.

Currently during preseason in the United States, the 45-year-old has been connecting with the Galactico, whilst recognising the plausible compatibility with Mbappe, as the youngster is able to play off of the wings with his speed and the veteran striker can lead up top or behind another frontman.

Coming into his ninth season at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, the goalscorer is well-respected by his club and teammates, including Ronaldo.

Benzema is already one of the club's most historic individuals, being in the top ten of non-Spanish players at the club with most appearances.

He is only surpassed by Roberto Carlos, Marcelo, Alfredo Di Stefano and Ronaldo, following the departure of Pepe.

Furthermore, he boasts the most games in the Champions League from his nation alongside most goals, beating Thierry Henry.

On top of those impressive accolades, he has also already equalled Raymond Kopa as the only Frenchman to have lifted the European Cup three times.