Karim Benzema refuses to leave Al-Hilal despite efforts to force him out | OneFootball

French striker Karim Benzema has refused to leave Saudi Pro League (SPL) club Al-Hilal despite the club’s efforts to force him out, according to SPORT.

The 38-year-old joined Al-Hilal on a free transfer in January, but they want to ship him off before the start of the new season.

However, Benzema has a contract that runs until 2027, and he has no interest in leaving the Riyadh-based club unless he’s compensated.

Benzema moved to the SPL in 2023 following a glittering spell at Real Madrid. He spent two and a half seasons with Al-Ittihad before making a surprise move to Al-Hilal.

They are now looking to get rid of the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner to free up one of their limited foreign player spots.

However, Benzema has made it clear that he has no desire to leave under the club’s current terms.

The veteran forward is determined to see out the remainder of his contract and has turned down every proposal presented to him this summer.

His stance has made it difficult for Al-Hilal to move forward with their transfer plans, leaving club officials searching for a solution that satisfies both parties.

Al-Hilal have also explored the possibility of moving Benzema to one of the newly promoted SPL clubs, but that was quickly turned down.

While Benzema is not completely against leaving, he is only willing to end his contract if Al-Hilal agree to pay the full salary owed for the final year of his contract. 

That arrangement would allow him to become a free agent and choose his next club without any restrictions from his current employers.