Unexpected Setback Threatens Benzema's Move to Al-Hilal Amid Transfer Market Confusion

Negotiations for the transfer of French star Karim Benzema, captain of Saudi club Al-Ittihad, to Al-Hilal have rapidly evolved in recent hours, with strong indications of an unexpected setback in the agreement, which was initially anticipated to be the highlight of the current transfer window.

Sharp Disagreements with Al-Ittihad Management

Benzema is under contract with Al-Ittihad until the summer of 2026, but growing tensions in the relationship between the player and the club have prompted him to consider an early departure. Media reports suggest that Benzema rejected a renewal offer from the club's management, which included a waiver of salary in exchange for 100% of image rights, deeming the proposal unacceptable for his career. He has informed the management of his desire not to continue with the team.

Al-Hilal's Interest and Subsequent Setback

In light of this crisis, Al-Hilal's management engaged in direct negotiations to recruit the French forward, but recent reports have indicated an unexpected reversal in the discussions. Patrick Berger, a correspondent for Sky Sports, stated on the platform "X" that Benzema's transfer to Al-Hilal is close to collapsing, reflecting confusion in the Saudi transfer market.

A Rich Career and Notable Absences

Benzema joined Al-Ittihad in the summer of 2023 on a free transfer after a historic 14-season career with Real Madrid, during which he won the Champions League title five times. The French star played a key role in leading Al-Ittihad to the Saudi league title last season but has recently missed two matches against Al-Fateh and Al-Najma due to ongoing tensions with the management.

Other Transfers Pending

In a similar context, sports journalist Khalid Al-Qahtani noted that Benzema's transfer setback is not an isolated case, highlighting other pending transfers, including N'Golo Kanté's move from Al-Ittihad to Turkish club Fenerbahçe in exchange for Moroccan player Youssef En-Nesyri. He confirmed that contracts are under review, but a final decision is still pending.

Ronaldo's Anger and Possible Implications

These developments coincide with reports of Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo, captain of Al-Nassr, expressing his anger over the ongoing negotiations between Al-Hilal and Benzema. It has been reported that Ronaldo decided to skip his team's match against Riyadh this evening in protest against what he perceives as a lack of fair competition in the transfer market.