Real Madrid will sign a new striker in January transfer window

Real Madrid are ready to sign in January. They are looking for a striker to strengthen their attack. A lack of goals and Karim Benzema's inconsistent form has forced them to explore other options. 

Benzema's played well in recent games but Gareth Bale is still not performing. The Welsh forward, one of president Florentino Perez's favourites, has not gelled with the team due to his eternal fitness issues. 

Meanwhile, Mariano, the summer's big signing, has had limited opportunities and injury problems. 

Therefore, Madrid are looking elswhere. They want a player with more experience, with names like Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Radamel Falcao on the list. 

Falcao looks most likely at the moment. He's been a Madrid target before and is keen to leave Monaco as soon as possible. The problem would be financial. Falcao has a deal until 2020 and Madrid will not pay for a player who turns 33 in February. 

As for Zlatan, at 27, he would be available for free short-term from the MLS. 

cavani

Another option could be Uruguayan front man Edinson Cavani, who's looking for a way out of Paris Saint-Germain. While Napolo want him, Madrid could jump ahead of the Italians in January. 

Cavani's situation in Paris is not ideal but, again, the problem would be a money one. He's in contract until 2020 and, not 32 in February, could command a high fee. 

Inter's Mauro Icardi could also be of interest -- but he comes with a price tag of around 125 million euros. 

borja iglesias

At the other end of the scale are more inexperienced players: Celta Vigo's Maxi Lopez and Espanyol's Borja Iglesias. 

Both are impressing in front of goal in La Liga this season. Madrid could negotiate a possible deal with either of their two clubs.