Benzema will leave Real Madrid 14 years after joining from hometown club Lyon in 2009 and has made 657 appearances, scoring 353 goals. The Frenchman departs the Bernabeu as club’s second highest all-time goal scorer; won LaLiga four times and the Champions League five times.
According to state media the 35-year-old has reached an agreement with reigning Saudi Pro League Champions Al-Ittihad – managed by former Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo – and will sign a two-year deal.
He did not feature in Real’s 2-1 win over Sevilla on May 27, but could feature for one final time in their final league match of the season against Athletic Bilbao on Sunday night.
“Real Madrid CF and our captain Karim Benzema have agreed to end his brilliant and unforgettable period as a player for our club,” the Spanish club said in a statement.
“Real Madrid would like to show its gratitude and affection for who is already one of our greatest legends.
“Karim Benzema’s career at Real Madrid has been an example of donduct and professionalism, and he has represented the values of our club. Karim Benzema has earned the right to decide his future.
“Real Madrid is and will always be his home, and he wish him and all his family the best in this new phase of his life.
