In a new development in the rapidly unfolding winter transfer market, Italian club Juventus has put an end to the speculation surrounding a potential move for French star Karim Benzema, the striker for Saudi club Al-Ittihad. This definitive denial has put a stop to the rumors linking the Ballon d'Or winner with a return to European football via the "Old Lady" (Juventus).
Official statement to Okaz: Juventus clarifies the situation
Juventus manager François Modesto, in an exclusive statement to Okaz newspaper, revealed the Italian club's final stance regarding rumors of signing Karim Benzema. When asked directly about the veracity of reports suggesting the Bianconeri's interest in acquiring the French striker during the current transfer window, Modesto's response was brief and decisive: "It's not true." This statement puts an end to the recent reports circulating in the international press about secret negotiations between the two parties.
Background to the rumors and French press reports
The renowned French newspaper L'Équipe dropped a bombshell, reporting a fierce battle between Saudi Arabia's Al-Hilal and Italy's Juventus to secure Karim Benzema's services before the winter transfer window closes. These reports were based on the player's current crisis with his club, Al-Ittihad, stemming from stalled contract renewal negotiations and strained relations that have led to his absence from training and matches.
Renewal crisis and administrative tension
Sources indicate that the crisis stems from the offer made by Al-Ittihad's management to renew Benzema's contract, which expires at the end of the current season. According to reports, the offer included granting the player image rights only in exchange for payment, which the French star deemed inadequate given his technical and marketing value. This angered him and led him to decide to stop playing for the team, plunging the two sides into a tense standoff.
A distinguished career and global impact
It's worth noting that Karim Benzema's move to the Saudi Professional League in 2023 was a global sporting event. He joined Al-Ittihad on a free transfer after a legendary career with Real Madrid, where he won every possible title. Since arriving in Jeddah, and despite recent tensions, statistics indicate that Benzema has played 83 matches across all competitions, scoring 54 goals and providing 17 assists, contributing to Al-Ittihad's Saudi League and King's Cup double last season.
The Saudi and international sports community is waiting to see how things will turn out in the next few days, and whether Al-Ittihad will succeed in containing the anger of its star player, or whether departure will be the most prominent headline for the end of Benzema’s relationship with the Tigers’ stronghold.
