Al-Ittihad have no intention of allowing Karim Benzema to leave | OneFootball

According to Foot Mercato, Al-Ittihad have no intention of allowing Karim Benzema (36) to leave the Saudi Arabian club in the January transfer window. The Saudi Pro League champions are adamant that they will keep the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner and are unwilling to let him leave in the winter window or in the next summer transfer window.

Benzema’s future in Saudi Arabia has been called into question in recent weeks. The former Real Madrid striker has been heavily criticised by the media in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and fans of Al-Ittihad. Fans of the Saudi Pro League club have nicknamed the former Lyon forward “kitty”, according to RMC Sport.

The 36-year-old’s future has been brought into question even further over recent days after he missed training with the club in Jeddah on the 28th and 29th of December. This began to spark rumours about his long-term future in the Gulf State. However, his player’s entourage confirmed that the absence was down to a foot injury when contacted by MARCA.

No discussions with other clubs

Despite reports that Benzema would have his sights set on a transfer to another Saudi club, no discussions have taken place with any other clubs, Foot Mercato reports. Al-Ittihad are steadfast in their resolve to keep the former France international at the club and have no desire to let him leave the club.

GFFN | Liam Wraith