Karim Benzema seals money-spinning Al-Ittihad move after Real Madrid exit, N’Golo Kante set to follow

Karim Benzema has signed a three-year deal with Saudi Arabian champions Al-Ittihad, with fellow French star N'Golo Kante poised to join him. Benzema was a free agent after leaving Real Madrid following 14 trophy-laden years. Ad It has been reported that Benzema’s contract with Al-Ittihad is worth more than €100m (£86m) per season, with Chelsea midfielder Kante set to pocket a similar amount when he pens a two-year deal in the Arabian Peninsula.

La LigaReal Madrid confirm Benzema will leave as contract expires04/06/2023 AT 11:11 Benzema joins former Real Madrid team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo in the Saudi Pro League, while there has been speculation that Lionel Messi could also move to the league following his departure from Paris Saint-Germain. Crystal Palace's Wilfried Zaha has also reportedly received an offer to join Ronaldo at Al-Nassr. «It's a good league and there are many good players,» said Benzema.

«Cristiano Ronaldo is already there, a friend which shows Saudi Arabia is starting to further progress its level. I am here to win, like I did in Europe. »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." Benzema, who is the reigning Ballon d’Or winner, won 25 major trophies in his 14 years at Real Madrid. Real head coach Carlo Ancelotti said Benzema’s decision to leave was a “massive surprise”. Spurs believe signing Maguire could help keep Kane — Paper Round Exclusive: 'Invincible' and 'special' Man City will be too strong for Inter says Crouch Al-Ittihad pipped Ronaldo's Al-Nassr to the Saudi Pro League title by five points last month.