Grêmio Settles the Debate on Signing Karim Benzema from Al-Ittihad
Grêmio, the Brazilian club, has clarified its position regarding the rumors circulating about the possibility of signing French star Karim Benzema, the Al-Ittihad striker, in the upcoming period, confirming that there is no intention to enter into official negotiations with him.
The Brazilian newspaper "Globo" reported that the new management of Grêmio, headed by Odorico Roman, is not considering signing Benzema, despite claims from the losing candidate in the club elections, Paulo Califi, who alleged that there were communications to persuade the player to join.
The newspaper explained that Grêmio's management aims to form a balanced and stable team that relies on teamwork, rather than attracting a single global star that requires massive financial expenditure and affects the salary budget within the club.
Califi had previously spoken about a potential partnership with one of the sponsors to finance the Benzema deal, but the new management showed no interest in the proposal, considering that the current phase requires focusing on developing the club's technical structure.
Benzema has a valid contract with Al-Ittihad until June 2026, after joining the team in the summer of 2023 from Real Madrid on a free transfer following the end of his European career.
The French striker has played 71 matches in the Al-Ittihad jersey across various competitions, scoring 43 goals and providing 17 assists, proving his status as one of the team's standout stars since moving to the Roshan League.
Benzema is set to enter the free period in January, which will legally allow him to negotiate with any other club without returning to Al-Ittihad's management, but so far there are no real indications of his departure from the Saudi club.
The Brazilian newspaper "Globo" reported that the new management of Grêmio, headed by Odorico Roman, is not considering signing Benzema, despite claims from the losing candidate in the club elections, Paulo Califi, who alleged that there were communications to persuade the player to join.
The newspaper explained that Grêmio's management aims to form a balanced and stable team that relies on teamwork, rather than attracting a single global star that requires massive financial expenditure and affects the salary budget within the club.
Califi had previously spoken about a potential partnership with one of the sponsors to finance the Benzema deal, but the new management showed no interest in the proposal, considering that the current phase requires focusing on developing the club's technical structure.
Benzema has a valid contract with Al-Ittihad until June 2026, after joining the team in the summer of 2023 from Real Madrid on a free transfer following the end of his European career.
The French striker has played 71 matches in the Al-Ittihad jersey across various competitions, scoring 43 goals and providing 17 assists, proving his status as one of the team's standout stars since moving to the Roshan League.
Benzema is set to enter the free period in January, which will legally allow him to negotiate with any other club without returning to Al-Ittihad's management, but so far there are no real indications of his departure from the Saudi club.