Saudi media reports revealed that Al Hilal has set its conditions to determine the future of its French player Karim Benzema for the current season, amid the club's desire to attract a new striker.
According to journalist Ahmed Al-Ajlan, Al Hilal has informed Karim Benzema that he will be released if he does not agree to be included in the team's squad for the AFC Champions League Elite.
Al-Ajlan added via his official page on the "X" platform that if Karim Benzema refuses, he will receive a financial settlement, which will occur immediately upon the signing of English striker Ollie Watkins.
Al-Ajlan noted that Waleed Bin Talal, the owner of Al Hilal, will cover the financial costs of this decision.
Benzema, 38 years old, had rejected the idea of being registered only for the Asian competition, insisting on either participating in all tournaments or leaving and receiving all his dues, which amount to 50 million euros according to Saudi media reports.
The reports clarified that the recruitment committee contributes to Benzema's contract with Al Hilal, but it is not willing to pay the French star's dues in the event of a contract termination, which extends until the end of the current season.
The capital club is keen to attract English striker Ollie Watkins, who plays for Aston Villa, this summer, as the Blue club has entered into direct negotiations, either with the English club or the player, to sign him.
The capital club aims to compete in all domestic tournaments, including the league and the King's Cup, as well as competing for the AFC Champions League Elite title.
Al Hilal delivered a strong start in the Saudi Roshn League and the King's Cup, winning 4-2 against Al-Fayha and 3-0 against Al-Fayha in the league, and advancing to the Round of 16 after a 2-0 victory over Al-Raed.
