Karim Benzema has completed a shock January transfer from Al-Ittihad to Saudi Pro League leaders Al-Hilal on deadline day.
Benzema was into the final few months of his deal with Al-Ittihad but has decided to switch side. The former Real Madrid forward joined Mohamed Kader Meïté in moving to Al-Hilal this winter.
Al-Hilal took to their official social media platforms to announce the move.
The transfer has proceeded despite reportedly stalling earlier in the day due to “discontent” from Cristiano Ronaldo, according to ESPN.
Karim Benzema looks on during the Saudi Pro League match between Al Ittihad and Al Orobah. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
Ronaldo is said to be angry at seeing his team’s biggest title rivals Al-Hilal strengthen in the January transfer window, while Al-Nassr have been unable to do the same.
Both clubs are managed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) and are fighting for the title. Al-Hilal currently lead the way and sit one point clear of Al-Nassr after 19 games played.
Ronaldo did not feature in Al-Nassr’s last fixture against Al-Riyadh on deadline day, as various report claim he has decided to go on strike in protest at the transfer activity in the Saudi Pro League.
Al-Nassr have yet to explain Ronaldo’s absence for the match, while the forward has also not spoken publicly about the current speculation.
Benzema, on the other hand is now set to start a new adventure at Al-Hilal. The Frenchman has scored eight goals in 14 league appearances so far this season.
