Al-Shabab Move for Karim Benzema Hits Roadblock Over Player's Stance
Saudi club Al-Shabab have moved to sign Karim Benzema if he leaves Al-Hilal, but the French striker remains unwilling to join the Riyadh-based club.
Saudi club Al-Shabab have made a move to sign French striker Karim Benzema if his relationship with Al-Hilal comes to an end, but the forward remains opposed to joining the Riyadh-based club for now.
The move comes amid growing uncertainty over Benzema's future at Al-Hilal, with the French striker maintaining his position regarding the next step in his career in Saudi Arabia.
Al-Shabab Seek Assistance to Complete Benzema Deal
According to sources, Al-Shabab have expressed their willingness to sign Benzema and asked the Saudi Pro League authorities to facilitate the transfer should the player leave Al-Hilal.
However, the move has not been enough to advance the deal, with Benzema continuing to reject the possibility of joining Al-Shabab.
Benzema Wants to Stay or Leave by Mutual Consent
Benzema has informed Al-Hilal's management that he would prefer either to remain with the club or terminate his contract by mutual consent while receiving all of his remaining financial entitlements through the end of his contract on June 30, 2027.
The French striker reportedly earns around $25 million per year under his Al-Hilal contract. His remaining payments from September through the end of next June are estimated at approximately $20.8 million, equivalent to around SAR 78.1 million.
Separate Contract Could Keep Benzema in Saudi Arabia
Benzema's future is also linked to a separate contract worth around $23 million annually that runs until 2030.
The contract is funded through the Saudi Pro League's recruitment program in return for roles related to promoting Saudi football and its events.
If the contract remains in place until June 2030, its remaining value would be approximately SAR 330.6 million.
Contract Includes a Clause Against Leaving Saudi Arabia
The separate agreement reportedly includes a clause preventing Benzema from playing outside Saudi Arabia during its validity.
If he moves to a club outside the Kingdom and plays for that team, the contract would be terminated immediately.
As a result, moving to another club within the Saudi Pro League could remain one of the options that would allow Benzema to retain his contract through 2030.
Benzema's Rejection Complicates Al-Shabab's Move
Despite Al-Shabab's approach to the Saudi Pro League authorities, Benzema's position remains the biggest obstacle to completing the deal.
The club could still pursue the move if the Frenchman changes his mind, but he has so far maintained his refusal to join Al-Shabab.
Another Obstacle for Al-Shabab
Al-Shabab also face another issue before completing a potential move for Benzema.
The club reportedly needs to resolve the situation involving English player Josh Brownhill, who is 30 years old, before completing the necessary procedures to bring in the French striker.
Al-Shabab therefore face two major challenges: resolving Brownhill's situation and convincing Benzema to accept the move.
Karim Benzema's Future Remains Uncertain
Benzema's future in Saudi football remains uncertain, particularly after he also rejected the option of being registered on Al-Hilal's Asian squad for the AFC Champions League Elite.
Several scenarios remain possible for the French striker, but he is determined to receive his full financial entitlements if he leaves Al-Hilal while also seeking to remain within the Saudi football system and preserve his contract through 2030.
Despite Al-Shabab's efforts, Benzema's stance remains the decisive factor in the potential transfer, with the player still unwilling to move to the club.
Do Al-Shabab want to sign Karim Benzema?
Yes. Al-Shabab have moved to sign Benzema if he leaves Al-Hilal.
Has Benzema agreed to join Al-Shabab?
No. The French striker remains opposed to joining the club.
When does Benzema's Al-Hilal contract expire?
His current Al-Hilal contract runs until June 30, 2027.
Does Benzema have another contract until 2030?
Yes. He has a separate agreement reportedly running until 2030 involving promotional roles related to Saudi football.
What is preventing Benzema from joining Al-Shabab?
The main obstacle is Benzema's refusal to join Al-Shabab, while the club also needs to resolve Josh Brownhill's situation.
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