Striker Karim Benzema, who is at differences with his club Al-Ittihad, has entered into negotiations to join rivals Al-Hilal, the Saudi Arabian league leaders, a source told AFP on Monday.
“Negotiations are underway between the parties: Al-Hilal would like to sign Benzema for the remaining six months of his contract with Al-Ittihad, but the player’s agent is demanding a one-and-a-half-year contract,” the source told AFP.
Despite missing the last two games, the French striker, the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner, has scored eight goals in 14 league games with Al-Ittihad this season.
Media reports state that he is dissatisfied with an offer of a contract extension.
According to his entourage, Benzema received an offer from the Saudi league’s sporting director, Michael Emenalo, which he deemed “insulting” as it would mean “playing for free” in addition to his image rights.
After playing for Real Madrid for 14 seasons, the 38-year-old former France international relocated to Saudi Arabia in 2023. Last season he scored 21 goals as Al-Ittihad won the league.
This season Al-Ittihad trail leaders Al-Hilal by 12 points.
Sergio Conceicao, the coach of Al-Ittihad, declined to comment on Benzema’s absence.
He stated last week that “Karim is a top-level professional and an extraordinary player” and that “you have to ask the club’s management and officials.”
