Benzema to Al Hilal: The Saudi Dream Moves Toward Official Status
2 February 2026
Deal Nears Completion
The French star Karim Benzema is nearing a move from Al Ittihad to Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia, with multiple reliable sources signaling that the transfer is all but done.
Benzema had reached an impasse with Al Ittihad over renewing his contract, and reports say a deal with Al Hilal is close before the current transfer window closes.
According to the Saudi platform Thamaniya, Benzema has become a Hilal player after agreement on all terms, with an official announcement expected within hours.
Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano also claimed via X that the deal is sealed, while Hamad Al-Suwailehi, a media figure close to Al Hilal, said the agent is on site to finalize every detail.
Remember, Benzema joined Al Ittihad in the summer of 2023 after a historic spell at Real Madrid, and talks with the Saudi club have intensified recently.
Humor note: If this transfer goes through, defenders may need a map—Benzema tends to disappear at pace, leaving backlines chasing shadows.
Punchline 1: If Benzema signs, the only thing more crowded than the penalty box will be the press conference podiums.
Punchline 2: The transfer window might need a nap after this one; even the clock is begging for extra minutes.