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Karim Benzema to sign with Saudi side Al-Ittihad on a two-year deal after Real Madrid exit confirmed.
Following his confirmation of his departure from Real Madrid on Sunday, Karim Benzema will sign a two-year contract with Saudi Pro League winners Al-Ittihad.
When Real declared that his one-year extension provision in his contract would not be triggered, the mercurial forward ended his 14-year stay in the capital of Spain.
The Frenchman, who is now a free agent, will transfer to Saudi outfit Al-Ittihad for two years, with the option of one more, according to The Guardian.
Documents have already been signed with the Saudi champions, according to the report, who have moved rapidly to sign the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner as the Gulf state’s ambitious transfer plans get underway.
Al-Hilal are apparently close to a record-breaking agreement to sign Lionel Messi, who is also available for free, in addition to Karim Benzema, while up to seven other international superstars are the targets of different other teams.
With the change, Benzema will reunite with former Real teammate Cristiano Ronaldo, although on rival squads competing for the Saudi Pro League title.
Late last month, Al-Ittihad defeated Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr by three points to win the championship, depriving the Portuguese of a trophy in his inaugural year with the team.
After scoring an outstanding 23 goals in 33 appearances during a season marred by injuries, the Frenchman was on target as he finished his career in Madrid in fine fashion.
He departs Real at the age of 35 having nearly amassed every trophy possible and will relocate to the Middle East as his career nears its end.