Not Karim Benzema... Al Hilal seals a French deal

Bouabri Joins Al Hilal

In the closing moments of the winter transfer window, Saudi club Al Hilal officially announced the signing of French youngster Simon Bouabri from Neom, strengthening the first team in a move aligned with the club's winter mercato activity.

Club officials secured a final agreement to recruit one of the brightest young talents who had attracted attention in recent months, as part of coach Simone Inzaghi's plan to deepen the attack and widen tactical options.

The signing comes as part of a broader strategy to replace the departure of young Brazilian striker Kai Cesar to Corinthians, prompting the leadership to act quickly to fill the void with a promising talent.

Official statement detailing the contract

In an official release, Al Hilal said: "The board, chaired by Prince Nawaf bin Saad, has completed the signing of the midfielder Simon Bouabri from Neom, for a contract running for three and a half years."

It added that Bouabri, 19, is among France's rising talents, having progressed through France's youth national teams and previously represented Monaco and several other French clubs.

Record transfer fee

Reports indicated the deal total around €30 million as a fixed fee, making it one of the most expensive transfers in the Saudi Pro League history, with additional incentives tied to his development and achievements.

The talks showed flexibility on both sides as Al Hilal and Neom negotiated, with Bouabri eager to join the league champions and contribute to Inzaghi's project, given his technical and attacking attributes.

Benzema on the radar

In the same winter window, there was notable progress in the Benzema file, with reports that the French star Karim Benzema, currently with Al Ittihad, could move to Al Hilal as part of one of the season's marquee deals.

Benzema reportedly wishes to leave his club amid frustration over a renewal offer, which opens the door to a possible switch to the Blue Wave in what would be one of the biggest transfers of the season.

Note: light humor ahead

And yes, if football transfers were a stand-up routine, this one would close with a mic drop for €30 million.

Meanwhile, if Benzema ends up moving, the only thing heavier than the transfer fee might be the celebratory fireworks in the stands.