Al-Hilal Negotiates to Replace Karim Benzema with Ollie Watkins
Here's what it means for you.
The shifting dynamics in football contracts can impact player market values and team strategies globally.
What happened
On August 17, 2026, Al-Hilal initiated formal steps to terminate Karim Benzema's contract and pursue Ollie Watkins.
The Context
- Benzema's contract: The 38-year-old French striker is on a £2 million per week deal, complicating his exit negotiations.
- New management: Under coach Simone Inzaghi, Al-Hilal is restructuring its squad, indicating a shift in team strategy and player roles.
- Regulatory hurdles: The club must navigate financial and league approval processes before finalizing any player transfers.
The Number
— Benzema's reported salary is central to the termination disputes, highlighting the financial stakes involved in player contracts.
Takeaway
As negotiations progress, expect Al-Hilal to explore alternative striker options if Benzema's exit remains unresolved.
Egyptian politics, economy, and society coverage.
"Al Masry Al Youm is a major Egyptian newspaper with broad national coverage."
— A47 Editor
هل يرحل كريم بنزيما؟.. الهلال يقترب من التعاقد مع واتكينز
The Saudi club Al-Hilal is reportedly considering signing English striker Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa as a potential replacement for French forward Karim Benzema, who may leave during the current transfer window. According to Spanish newspaper AS,...
Egyptian politics, economy, and society coverage.
"Al Masry Al Youm is a major Egyptian newspaper with broad national coverage."
— A47 Editor
الهلال السعودي يتحرك لضم بديل بنزيما مع اقتراب رحيله
Saudi club Al-Hilal has reached an agreement with English striker Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa regarding personal terms, in preparation for a potential transfer during the current summer transfer window. This move comes as Al-Hilal anticipates the de...
Economic, business, and financial reporting from Saudi Arabia and the wider region.
"Al Watan economy coverage often centers Saudi economic policy, business activity, and reform themes."
— A47 Editor
بنزيما يعقد مفاوضات الهلال وواتكينز
Al Hilal is restructuring its attacking line during the current summer transfer window, aiming to part ways with French striker Karim Benzema at the request of coach Simone Inzaghi. The club has initiated negotiations with several forwards, including...
Pan-Arab news coverage spanning politics, business, sports, and regional affairs.
"Asharq Al-Awsat reflects a broad Arab editorial perspective with strong attention to regional geopolitics."
— A47 Editor
هل يستطيع الهلال التخلي عن كريم بنزيمة؟
French striker Karim Benzema may become a free agent during the current summer transfer window, as Italian coach Simone Inzaghi of Al-Hilal has decided not to rely on him moving forward. This decision marks a significant shift in the team's strategy ...