European Comeback Looms: Karim Benzema Does Not Plan to Extend Al Ittihad Contract

French striker unlikely to renew Saudi deal, free summer exit expected

European Comeback Looms: Karim Benzema Does Not Plan to Extend Al Ittihad Contract

Karim Benzema's future with Al Ittihad;s shrouded in doubt as his contract runs down to June 2026.

Return to Europe on the Horizon

According to journalist Rudy Galetti, Benzema doesn't plan to extend his deal and is preparing for free transfer exit in the summer.

Portuguese giants Benfica, now managed by Jose Mourinho are pushing hard with the coach eager to reunite with his former Madrid forward.

January Move Not Ruled Out

While summer departure remains the most realistic scenario, report in Marca suggest that January exit cannot be ruled out. Benfica see Benzema as ideal leader for their attack while Al Ittihad’s inconsistent start this season has further fueled speculation.

🚨‼️ Karim Benzema wants a return to Europe and won’t extend his Al-Ittihad deal expiring in June 2026.

With Mourinho in charge, Benfica see the 🇫🇷 ST as a key target.

A free move next summer looks most realistic, but a January approach can’t be ruled out: more on @TEAMtalk ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/zPyndc2JFX

— Rudy Galetti (@RudyGaletti) September 28, 2025

With Mourinho keen, Benfica leading the race and offers on the table, Benzema faces decisive choice:

🚨 Benfica boss José Mourinho wants to sign Al-Ittihad's Karim Benzema and be reunited with his former striker.

(Source: @MARCA) pic.twitter.com/P30GteDNJI

— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) September 28, 2025