Karim Benzema agrees three-year deal to join Saudi Pro League champions Al Ittihad

Ballon d'Or holder Karim Benzema has agreed to join Saudi Pro League champions Al Ittihad on an initial three-year deal.

The French striker, 35, underwent a medical in Madrid in preparation for joining the Jeddah side, the kingdom's oldest sports club.

In his first exclusive interview as an Al Ittihad player, which will be published on the club’s social channels, Benzema said: “I am excited to experience a new football league in a different country. Al Ittihad Club has an amazing history, incredibly passionate fans and big ambitions in football to be a force in Asia after winning the league.

"I have been fortunate to achieve amazing things in my career and achieve everything I can in Spain and Europe. It now feels the time is right for a new challenge and project. Every time I’ve visited Saudi Arabia I’ve always felt such warmth and love from the fans and people.

"I am looking forward to joining my new teammates and, together with them, help take this amazing club and the game in Saudi Arabia to new levels.”

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