Karim Benzema, currently a forward for Al-Ittihad, is likely to transfer to Benfica, according to Goal, citing journalist Ekrem Konur. Benzema will need to accept a pay cut to make the move.
New Benfica coach José Mourinho personally wants to see Benzema on the team. The transfer fee is expected to be between €5 and €7 million, which Benfica is prepared to pay.
Benzema and Mourinho previously worked together at Real Madrid, where Benzema played 648 matches, scored 354 goals, and provided 155 assists. Benzema moved to Al-Ittihad in summer 2024.
Mourinho took over as Benfica’s manager in September 2025. He has previously coached top clubs like Fenerbahçe, Roma, Tottenham, Manchester United, Chelsea, and Inter Milan.
