Al-Hilal ‘to target’ Watkins as Benzema successor | OneFootball

Al-Hilal are planning for life after Karim Benzema, with Simone Inzaghi targeting Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins as a possible successor. Any move is on hold while the club negotiate a contract termination payout with the 38-year-old.

MaxiFoot reports the Saudi side are weighing a split with the 2022 Ballon d'Or winner to rejuvenate the squad, shaped by foreign player limits. AS adds that Inzaghi views 30-year-old Watkins as an ideal fit after 21 goals in 55 for Villa in 2025-26.

An approach for Watkins remains strictly conditional on resolving Benzema's contract. The Frenchman is seeking full payment of his final year before agreeing to a mutual termination, which has left talks at a standstill.

Tensions surfaced in the 4-2 win over Al Faisaly on Friday. Benzema, having scored earlier, showed his frustration when he was replaced 20 minutes from time by youngster Kader Meite.

Inzaghi later played down the flashpoint, saying they had spoken and that he understands a striker wanting to play every match. He noted Meite represents the club's future, said he joked with Benzema afterwards and praised his professionalism.

Next steps depend entirely on the financial talks. Al-Hilal cannot advance formal moves for Watkins until Benzema vacates a foreign player slot. If a termination is agreed, they plan to accelerate their pursuit, and for now Benzema remains on the books.

Source: Goal.com

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