Karim Benzema explores Bundesliga move after Al-Hilal departure

Karim Benzema has opened talks over a possible move to the Bundesliga after leaving Al-Hilal, but remains without a new club and uncertain about his next step.

The former France international had been linked with a return to his childhood club Lyon. However, that interest did not result in a formal offer, leaving Benzema’s future unresolved.

A major obstacle to his next move is an agreement with the Saudi League that runs until 2030. Although Benzema has departed Al-Hilal, the arrangement prevents him from completely severing his ties with Saudi football.

Benzema remains an ambassador for the Saudi Pro League, while the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia (PIF) requires star players covered by image rights contracts to continue playing exclusively in the Saudi Pro League. Those agreements also include obligations to appear at sporting events organised by the Kingdom.

The restrictions had appeared to leave Benzema on course for retirement. However, he and his representatives have reportedly spoken to Bayer Leverkusen pair Moussa Diaby and Lucas Vazquez about a possible move to Germany for the remainder of the 2026/27 season.