French striker Karim Benzema has officially completed a move to Al Hilal from Saudi rivals Al Ittihad on the final day of the winter transfer window, according to a breaking report by Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat.
The newspaper announced via its account on X that Benzema has signed a contract with Al Hilal lasting one and a half years, keeping him at the club until June 2027.
The transfer marks a major shift in the Saudi Pro League landscape, with the former Ballon d’Or winner switching directly between two of the league’s biggest clubs.
Benzema’s move comes after reported disagreements with Al Ittihad over a contract extension, prompting the French forward to seek a new destination.
According to L’Équipe, Benzema had received offers from both Al Hilal and Italian side Juventus, but ultimately chose to remain in Saudi Arabia and join the league leaders.
The 36-year-old striker was absent from Al Ittihad’s match against Al Najmah on Sunday in Round 20 of the Saudi Pro League, amid growing speculation surrounding his future, which was confirmed with the completion of the transfer later that day.
Meanwhile, Al Ittihad are moving quickly to secure a replacement.
The club is close to finalizing a deal for Moroccan international striker Youssef En-Nesyri from Turkish side Fenerbahce.
Renowned Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed on X that Al Ittihad have already entered negotiations with the Moroccan forward to strengthen their attacking line following Benzema’s departure.
Benzema’s arrival is expected to further bolster Al Hilal’s attacking options as the club pushes to maintain its lead in the Saudi Pro League and compete strongly on all fronts through the remainder of the season.
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