There has reportedly been a major new development regarding Karim Benzema's future in the Saudi Pro League.
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Spanish publications have recently claimed the former France international is eyeing a blockbuster return to Europe despite only taking his career to the Middle East at the start of the season.
Though he has scored 12 goals across all competitions since his arrival, Benzema is believed to have fallen out with Al Ittihad's hierarchy amid rumours he went AWOL in December.
The 36-year-old, who won the 2022 Ballon d'Or, has been linked with Manchester United and a return to Real Madrid. However, it is reported SPL bosses would prefer if he remained in the country.
According to football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the ex-LALIGA superstar will hold discussions with Al Ittihad in the coming days, with the European window still open until the end of this month.
?????? Understand more meetings will take place soon to discuss the future of Karim Benzema.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 21, 2024
The situation remains tense with Al Ittihad.
???? SPL bosses still want KB to stay in Saudi, even to join another Saudi club.
Return to Europe can only be possible with huge salary cut. pic.twitter.com/3hklAs8wOt
Romano claims those in charge of football in Saudi Arabia want Benzema to stay in the Saudi Pro League and that he would need to accept a significant wage cut in order to return to Europe.
The striker currently captains last season's league champions, who are sitting seventh on the table after 18 matches.
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For his trophy-laden 14 years in Spain at Los Blancos between 2009 and 2023, Benzema is widely regarded as one of the best forwards of his generation.
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