Al-Hilal want to offload Karim Benzema (38), as is Simone Inzaghi’s wish, whilst the former France international is also keen to leave the Saudi club, as per a report from Sacha Tavolieri. Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins (30) is viewed as a potential replacement.
Inzaghi wants to sell Benzema and Al-Hilal are therefore taking steps in order to fulfil this wish. However, it is a complicated procedure, as the former Real Madrid forward’s contract is financed by Saudi authorities, as well as by the club. It is, therefore, not simply about finding an agreement between the player and the club. Benzema, meanwhile, wants to leave on a free transfer, but also wants to be paid the final year of his contract. That option is not favoured by Al-Hilal, the Saudi Pro League, or the Saudi authorities, all of whom are stakeholders in any potential deal.
In any case, Al-Hilal have identified a potential replacement in the form of England international Watkins. However, without the Benzema situation being resolved, no progress can be made in the recruitment of the Aston Villa forward. Benzema’s exit is, therefore, a priority for Al-Hilal… but perhaps not for the other stakeholders in the deal.
GFFN | Luke Entwistle