Real Madrid Transfer Rumors: Karim Benzema Headed to Manchester United?

Injuries and inconsistent play have plagued Jose Mourinho and Real Madrid throughout this season, and a change may be on the way.

January’s transfer session is looming, and according to reports, Mourinho could send striker Karim Benzema to Manchester United for striker Javier Hernandez.

At 24 years old, Hernandez was a rumored target for Mourinho back in October. In that speculated deal, Los Blancos would have sent defenders Raul Abiol, Raphael Varane, or Sergio Ramos to Old Trafford in exchange for Hernandez.

That prossible transaction would have sacrificed defense for the sake of offense, but Madrid’s back line have suffered injuries in the past few weeks, which could make it difficult to part with such a valued defender like Ramos. Even if he does have rumored trouble connecting with Mourinho, the Bernabeu may not give up on Ramos just yet.

Madrid will also have to compete for Hernandez’s services with Manchester City, La Liga's Atletico Madrid and Serie A’s Fiorentina, who have also been linked to the youngster.

Hernandez signed a five-year extension with United in 2011. Although the terms and amount have not been disclosed, he is believed to be one of the club’s top earners.

Then there is Benzema, who hoped for more playing time after Gonzalo Higuain went down last week during Champions League play against Borussia Dortmund.

Also 24 years old, the French national has made eight appearances and scored six goals in all competitions this season, and typically shares the attack with Higuain.

Benzema may get his wish as Cristiano Ronaldo could sit out Madrid’s next match against Atletico Bilbao due to a nasty eye injury.

Ronaldo took an elbow to his left eye from Levante’s David Navarro in Los Blancos 2-1 La Liga win Sunday, and is reportedly having blurred vision.