Karim Benzema made headlines earlier this summer by joining Saudi Arabian outfit Al-Ittihad. He was the second high-profile transfer to the oil-rich country this year, following in the footsteps of his formerReal Madridteammate Cristiano Ronaldo.
Benzema’s contract atReal Madridwas set to expire at the єɴԀ of the month. He was close to renewing his contract at the Bernabeu before Al-Ittihad came up with a lucrative offer. He eventually joined the club on a free transfer.
However, according toRomain Molina, Saudi Arabia had paid a small transfer fee toReal Madridfor Benzema despite the fact that the player’s contract was going to expire this summer.
It appears the oil-rich nation convincedReal Madridto not try hard for Benzema’s renewal by offering them a small compensation. However, to say the Spanish outfit did not try would perhaps be unfair, as coach Carlo Ancelotti was desperate to retain of the Frenchman’s services.
Benzema, after all, was a crucial link to Real Madrid’s transition ρłɑɴ in the attacking unit. The club wanted him to continue scoring goals in Europe until 2024 whenLos Blancoshad ρłɑɴned to splurge on either Kylian Mbappe or Erling Haaland.
However, with Benzema leaving the club this summer,Real Madridnow have to find a replacement in the market. They haveroped in Joselufrom Espanyol, but the former Stoke City ace is more of a replacement for the departing Mariano Diaz.
Real Madrid remain in contention to sign Mbappe this summer, with Paris Saint-Germainkeen on offloading the Frenchman. But meeting PSG’s hefty demands for the attacker could prove to be tricky forLos Blancos, especially after they shelled out a huge sum for Jude Bellingham.
