The 2017/18 campaign saw Karim Benzema record his least productive season with Real Madrid netting 12 times in 39 games with the dividend strengthening calls for his exit from the Bernabeu. On the day where the player celebrates his ninth anniversary with the LaLiga side, the French forward took to his Twitter account posting a message that for many has the hallmarks of a farewell:

“Nine years ago I first wore the Real Madrid shirt, thanks to the President, the whole club and the players and all the coaches with whom I met along the way. I've been proud to defend the club badge and am eternally grateful always #HalaMadrid”.

The message coincides with reports in Italian sports daily La Gazzetta dello Sport who claim Napoli are set to make a 40 million euro bid for Benzema. If the French striker does move to the Serie A side it would see a reunion with former Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti who has just taken over at the Neapolitan outfit.