French striker Karim Benzema is in advanced talks over a move to Al-Hilal, with negotiations underway between the Riyadh club and Al-Ittihad following a breakdown in contract discussions.
The 38-year-old has not featured in recent matchday squads for the Jeddah side, a sequence that followed after a discrepancy in contract discussions between the player and the club.
Al-Ittihad had opened negotiations with Benzema over an extension to his current deal, which runs until June 2026. The proposal centred on commercial and image rights and did not include a defined playing salary.
The former Real Madrid forward declined the offer, and discussions did not progress beyond that stage. No revised terms have been presented since.
Following the collapse of talks, Benzema trained away from the main group and was omitted from the squad for the Saudi Pro League fixture against Al-Fateh.
As revealed by L’Equipe journalist, Loïc Tanzi, Al-Hilal have entered negotiations with Al-Ittihad to explore a transfer within the Saudi Pro League. Talks between the two clubs are described as “advanced,” with the league leaders assessing terms that would allow the striker to move before the winter transfer window slams shut.
Benzema has remained productive on the pitch this season, scoring 16 goals in 21 appearances across league and cup competitions, maintaining a regular scoring return since his arrival in Saudi Arabia in June 2023.
Juventus have also enquired to clarify the conditions around Benzema’s situation, though no formal proposal has been submitted. The Serie A side are reviewing attacking options and have monitored developments as talks in Saudi Arabia continued.
