Karim Benzema’s transfer to Al Hilal faces delays as deadline nears – sources

Karim Benzema’s transfer to Al Hilal has been delayed by the Saudi Ministry of Sport and the Public Investment Fund (PIF), which oversees the acquisitions of prominent players in the Saudi Pro League, sources have informed ESPN.

The 38-year-old French forward had reached an agreement to depart Al Ittihad, where his contract concludes in June, to sign with Al Hilal prior to the closure of the January transfer window on Monday night.

PIF had initially approved the transfer, but it has now been postponed.

According to sources, Cristiano Ronaldo, who is contracted with Al Nassr, another club operated by PIF, is dissatisfied with the lack of investment directed towards his team and declined to participate in the league match on Monday against Al Riyadh.

The Portuguese star is also frustrated that Al Hilal, Al Nassr’s main competitors for the championship this season, could enhance their squad with Benzema’s addition while Al Nassr would not receive any new players.

A source indicated to ESPN that Ronaldo’s dissatisfaction might be a factor in the delay of the Benzema transfer.

The former Lyon forward is eager for the transfer to Al Hilal and is hopeful that it will be resolved before the transfer window closes.

As reported by ESPN on Thursday, Benzema felt unsettled by the contract extension proposed by PIF to remain at Al Ittihad, which he viewed as “disrespectful” since it implied he would have to play without compensation.

Turkish club Fenerbahçe continues to aspire to lure Benzema to Turkey during this transfer window as well, sources have told ESPN.