Turkish twist could reunite Benzema with Salah, rattling Saudi rivalry

At a bustling Riyadh training ground, Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema, the two marquee names of the Saudi Pro League, sparred in a light‑hearted drill while Mohamed Salah’s recent Turkish switch loomed in the background, hinting at a new twist in their Middle East rivalry.

Both stars arrived in the Middle East in recent seasons, instantly becoming the focal point of the Saudi Pro League. Their parallel moves have kept the league in the global spotlight, with each player’s performances drawing worldwide attention.

Uncertainty at Al‑Hilal

Al‑Hilal’s plans for the 38‑year‑old Frenchman have become increasingly uncertain. Coach Simone Inzaghi is reportedly reassessing Benzema’s role, despite the striker’s nine goals and five assists in 13 appearances for the Blue Waves. Benzema joined Al‑Hilal in January after ending his spell with Al‑Ittihad.

Benzema is said to demand the full amount owed for the final year of his contract before any departure, complicating negotiations. The club is reportedly eyeing a major overhaul, with Harry Kane, Ollie Watkins and Victor Osimhen listed as potential replacements.

Turkish Super Lig enters the race

Turkish Super Lig side Trabzonspor has entered the race, reaching out to Al‑Hilal about the veteran striker. Journalist Yağız Sabuncuoğlu posted: “Trabzonspor inquired about the conditions for Karim Benzema, who wears the Al‑Hilal shirt!”

The approach marks a shift in Trabzonspor’s transfer strategy after a failed attempt to sign Darwin Nunez, leaving the club eager for an experienced alternative. The club’s hierarchy believes the veteran’s experience could fill the void left by the aborted Nunez deal.

Potential Salah‑Benzema partnership

Mohamed Salah completed a free transfer to Trabzonspor on August 6, signing a two‑year contract after departing Liverpool. His arrival has already raised the club’s profile, and a Benzema signing would pair two of the most recognizable forwards of their generation.

Negotiations remain at an early stage, with no agreement reached between Trabzonspor, Al‑Hilal or the Frenchman. The club says it must first resolve Benzema’s contractual demands before finalising any move.