# Karim Benzema transfer uncertainty at Al-Hilal

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/karim-benzema-transfer-uncertainty-at-al-hilal
> Updated: 2026-08-21T05:12:00.000Z. Sources: 15. Developments: 3.

Karim Benzema’s future at Al-Hilal remains a subject of conflicting reports. While the 38-year-old striker has dismissed rumors of a departure by stating, “I am staying and continuing with the team,” his position within the squad remains under scrutiny. Reports indicate he has been outside the plans of manager Simone Inzaghi after only 16 matches.

Negotiations regarding a potential exit are complicated by significant financial demands. Benzema has reportedly requested that Al-Hilal cover the remaining salary from his contract to facilitate a termination, a figure estimated at 100 million euros. This high cost has hindered interest from several clubs. Real Betis in Spain has reportedly entered discussions, but a move would likely require him to join as a free agent with a reduced salary. In Turkey, Trabzonspor has been linked to the player but expressed concerns regarding his age and physical condition. Additionally, while fans of Olympique Lyonnais have expressed interest in a homecoming, the French club is not currently pursuing the player due to his salary requirements.

In a separate squad development, Al-Hilal has decided to loan striker Darwin Nunez to Al Diriyah for the 2026–27 season. Nunez, who joined the club in August 2025 from Liverpool for $60 million, struggled to meet performance expectations, recording nine goals in 24 appearances. The club's decision to loan Nunez reflects a strategic preference for established veterans like Benzema as they structure their frontline.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-21: Karim Benzema linked to European return amid Al-Hilal uncertainty

Karim Benzema's future at Al-Hilal is uncertain amid rumors of a European return. Real Betis is reportedly interested, but a departure is complicated by his high salary demands.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/karim-benzema-linked-to-european-return-amid-al-hilal-uncertainty

### 2026-08-20: Karim Benzema confirms Al Hilal stay as Darwin Nunez joins loan

Karim Benzema has confirmed he will stay with Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League, while Darwin Nunez has been sent on loan to Al Diriyah following inconsistent performance.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/karim-benzema-confirms-al-hilal-stay-as-darwin-nunez-joins-loan

### 2026-08-18: Karim Benzema linked to Trabzonspor and Real Betis amid Al-Hilal exit talks

Karim Benzema is seeking to terminate his Al-Hilal contract, sparking interest from clubs like Trabzonspor and Real Betis as he looks for a new destination.

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/karim-benzema-faces-uncertain-future-at-al-hilal

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Cite as: Karim Benzema transfer uncertainty at Al-Hilal. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/karim-benzema-transfer-uncertainty-at-al-hilal