The French newspaper L’Equipe confirmed that Juventus inquired about the possibility of signing Karim Benzema from Al-Ittihad during the final hours of the current winter transfer window.
Benzema’s relationship with Al-Ittihad’s management deteriorated recently after the Saudi club presented a humiliating offer to renew the Frenchman’s contract, which expires at the end of the current season.
Benzema missed the recent Al-Fateh match at his own request and will also miss Sunday’s match against Al-Najma. He is reportedly seeking an immediate departure from the Tigers due to a perceived lack of respect.
According to recent reports, Juventus, who are looking for a new striker before the transfer window closes, considered signing Benzema and buying out the remainder of his contract from Al-Ittihad.
Negotiations remain highly complex, and it is unlikely to proceed smoothly, as Al-Ittihad is unwilling to let the 37-year-old Benzema go for anything less than a substantial transfer fee.
Journalist Sacha Talafiori reported that Al-Ittihad has initially set a €25 million price tag for Benzema, a figure neither Juventus nor any other European club would be willing to pay for a player nearing 40 with only six months remaining on his contract.
This makes Al-Hilal the most likely destination for Benzema at present. There is a near-agreement between the club and Benzema regarding this move, and the player is currently pressuring Al-Ittihad to allow him to join Simone Inzaghi’s squad.
Despite Al-Hilal’s substantial financial resources, it is also unlikely they will pay €25 million for Benzema now, which will make negotiations complex and difficult until a mutually agreeable deal is reached.
