0
0
Karim Benzema is stayin in Saudi Arabia with Al-Ittihad Club despite Premier League Clubs interest.
Despite widespread speculation about his future this month, Karim Benzema is reportedly set to stay with Al-Ittihad until at least summer.
The 36-year-old unexpectedly declined a new contract with Real Madrid last year in order to relocate to Saudi Arabia, signing a three-year deal with Al-Ittihad.
Karim Benzema | Player Stats and Transfer Rumors
Karim has made 20 appearances for his current club in 2023-24 season. Benzema has 12 goals and five assists, with nine coming in 15 Saudi Pro League games.
However, there was a lot of speculation surrounding the forward during the January transfer window, with reports claiming he was eager to return to European football.
Former clubs Lyon and Real Madrid have been linked with a move, while Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United have all expressed interest in the Premier League.
Benzema will remain with Al-Ittihad after the winter transfer window closes, as the forward prefers to remain in Saudi Arabia.
During Saudi Arabia’s mid-season break, the Frenchman ‘was absent from team duties. He will likely to play in their next King’s Cup game on Sunday, though, having returned to the team.
With 25 points separating them from leaders Al-Hilal, Al-Ittihad currently sits seventh in the Saudi Pro League. They last played on December 26 and lost 5-2 to Al-Nassr.
Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United are all looking for new strikers, and Benzema appeared to be a genuine option for the three clubs on loan.
However, the forward’s significant wages, estimated to be around £88 million per year, have always made a short-term deal unlikely due to the high cost.
Benzema recently denied reports that he was looking to leave this month, telling reporters, “It is completely false! The French media is at a loss for new ideas. “Bigger is better.”
Meanwhile, his brother denied rumors of a return to Real Madrid before the transfer window closes.
Benzema scored 354 goals and 165 assists in 648 Real Madrid appearances between 2009 and 2023, including 31 in the 2022-23 season, but he declined to renew his contract in search of a new challenge.
