Karim Benzema to Newcastle United? PIF link opens door to shock Premier League move

Karim Benzema has emerged as a potential surprise target for Newcastle United despite the financial and contractual complications surrounding his return to European football.

The 38-year-old striker is currently a free agent after leaving Al-Hilal, but his contractual relationship with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) could make a move back to Europe difficult.

Newcastle’s ownership by PIF, however, has prompted speculation that the Magpies could provide an unusual solution if Benzema is determined to finish his career in Europe.

The possibility comes despite Newcastle already having several options in attack. Yoane Wissa has made an impressive start to the campaign after joining the club, having also scored three goals for DR Congo at the World Cup.

Newcastle also invested heavily in Matias Fernandez-Pardo, signing the Belgium forward from Lille on deadline day, while William Osula remains part of the club’s attacking plans despite currently recovering from injury.

Osula scored nine goals last season and is expected to play a greater role this term.

Yet Benzema’s availability and enormous experience could make him an attractive proposition, particularly as a short-term option for Eddie Howe.

Benzema’s contract stands in the way

The main obstacle is not necessarily Benzema’s age or Newcastle’s attacking depth but the agreement he has with PIF.

According to RMC Sport, Lyon explored the possibility of bringing their former striker back to the club during the summer through an intermediary.

However, Lyon sporting director Matthieu Louis-Jean revealed that the proposal quickly became unrealistic because of Benzema’s contractual circumstances.

“It’s true there was contact with an intermediary this summer regarding Karim. For me, it didn’t go any further than that.

“It was impossible given Karim’s contract situation. Karim is a phenomenal player. We didn’t even try to pursue it further because we knew how difficult the situation was.”

Benzema left Real Madrid for Al-Ittihad in 2023 before moving to Al-Hilal. Following his departure from the Saudi club, he became a free agent.

His ambassadorial agreement with PIF is understood to be central to the situation. Benzema can reportedly retain the benefits of that arrangement by either retiring or continuing his career within the Saudi Pro League. A move elsewhere would put the agreement at risk.

That creates a major financial consideration for a player who has spent the latter stages of his career earning significant sums in Saudi Arabia.

Could Newcastle offer a solution?

Newcastle’s ownership structure makes the club an obvious point of speculation.

Sport Witness has suggested that the Magpies could potentially provide a route for Benzema to continue playing European football while remaining connected to PIF.

Any move, though, remains firmly in the realm of possibility rather than an advanced transfer.

At 38, Benzema would also represent a very different proposition from the young forwards Newcastle have invested in. The former France international has never played in the Premier League and would have to adapt to its physical and relentless demands.

Nevertheless, his arrival would bring considerable experience, pedigree and global attention. He could potentially serve as an experienced cover option while helping develop Newcastle’s younger attackers.