Saudi Pro League leaders Al-Hilal are considering the transfer of 38-year-old French striker Karim Benzema.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports, citing foreign media, that this option could come to the forefront if Marcos Leonardo's transfer to Europe takes place. It is reported that Benzema has experienced serious disagreements regarding a contract extension with his current club, Al-Ittihad, leading to increased tension between the parties. Consequently, the player is noted to be close to departing the club.
Benzema stated in an interview with AS in December that while he intended to extend his contract, he did not rule out a possible return to Europe. The striker, who earned 97 caps and scored 37 goals for the French national team, joined Al-Ittihad as a free agent from Real Madrid in July 2023. His current contract with the Saudi club is valid until June 2026. During the current season, Benzema has scored 8 goals in 14 matches in the Saudi Arabian championship. The Transfermarkt portal estimates his market value at 6 million euros. Reports from January 2026 suggest that Besiktas planned to offer 3 million euros for the termination of the player's contract.
The potential move marks a significant shift in the Saudi Pro League landscape, where Al-Hilal continues to strengthen its squad with world-class talent. Benzema, a former Ballon d'Or winner, remains one of the most decorated strikers in football history, having secured five UEFA Champions League titles during his tenure at Real Madrid. His arrival in Saudi Arabia was part of a broader strategy by the kingdom to elevate the profile of its domestic league by attracting elite international players, a trend that has reshaped global football transfers over the past few years.
