FACT CHECK: Is Karim Benzema Joining Man Utd for £400k-a-Week?
Rumors have resurfaced claiming that Karim Benzema is headed to Manchester United on a massive wage deal to “supercharge” the attack. But before you get his name on the back of a shirt, let’s look at the reality of the situation.
The Verdict: UNLIKELY. While Benzema is an all-time great, this move contradicts everything we know about the “New United” under INEOS.
1. Benzema’s Recent Move: The Al-Hilal Switch
As of February 2, 2026, Karim Benzema officially left Al-Ittihad. However, he didn’t head for Europe—he signed for their Saudi Pro League rivals, Al-Hilal.
The Deal: He joined the league leaders on a one-and-a-half-year contract that runs until the end of the 2026/27 season.
Commitment: Reports from Riyadh suggest he is fully settled and focused on winning the Asian Champions League, making a move to the Premier League this summer almost impossible.
2. The “Wage Cap” at Old Trafford
The claim of a £400,000-per-week deal would actually be a massive pay cut for Benzema, who is currently earning closer to £1.6 million per week in Saudi Arabia.
More importantly, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the United board have implemented a strict new wage structure. Giving a 38-year-old striker £400k-a-week would break the very “PSR discipline” they’ve spent the last year establishing.
3. The “Sesko & Cunha” Era
Under Michael Carrick, United’s attack is finally clicking. With Benjamin Sesko (wearing the #30) and Matheus Cunha thriving in high-intensity roles, the club is looking for young, hungry players—not aging superstars.
The Real Plan: Insiders suggest United are looking for a striker this summer, but the target is a “younger profile” who can rotate with Sesko, rather than a short-term veteran fix.
Why Is This Rumor Trending?
This story is likely a “recycled” version of the rumors from January 2024. In the world of 2026, where United are sitting 3rd and building for the long-term, a move for Benzema simply doesn’t fit the blueprint.
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