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Reports state that KARIM BENZEMA will not be moving out of Al-Ittihad during the January transfer window.
The 36-year-old Real Madrid icon only signed an £86 million annual contract with the Saudi Arabian champions in the summer.
However, it was reported earlier this month that a number of teams were keen to get him back to Europe before Thursday’s January deadline.
The French striker was linked to Manchester United, but the team swiftly ruled out any interest.
His previous club Lyon was being discussed as a possible destination, along with Arsenal and Chelsea.
The Athletic now knows, however, that Benzema will stay at Al-Ittihad even if Lyon is “exploring a potential deal”.
It follows an interview last week in which the athlete himself denied wishing to leave the Middle East.
He declared: “It’s wholly untrue! The French media is at a loss for ideas these days. The greater the size, the better.
Benzema’s contract with Al-Ittihad expires at the conclusion of the 2024–2025 campaign.
Since coming to Saudi Arabia, he has made 20 appearances across all competitions, scoring 12 goals.
“With everything I have achieved with Real Madrid, it was the right time for me to try a new challenge,” remarked Benzema upon joining Al-Ittihad.
“Even before football, I’ve wanted to come here for a very long time.
“After that, the football idea emerged; it was a project that was just getting started, and I really wanted to be involved in the narrative. I was determined to see Saudi football flourish.”
On Wednesday, February 7, Al-Ittihad will resume play in the Saudi Pro League after their winter vacation.
The victors, currently ranked seventh in the standings, will visit Al-Tai, who are in danger of relegation.
Benzema’s 17-DAY late return from the midseason break infuriated Al-Ittihad’s management.