Following an emotional farewell from Real Madrid on Sunday, Karim Benzema is now said to have reached an agreement to join a new club.
The former France star played his final game for Real on Sunday, against Athletic Club, and scored his 354th goal for the club in the process.
Read: Real Madrid 'set condition' for Mbappe after Benzema exit
With the matched finishing 1-1, Benzema's equaliser marked his 18th strike against their opponents, overtaking Cristiano Ronaldo's record for the most goals scored against the LaLiga team.
After 14 years in Madrid, the 35-year-old received an emotional send-off in front of the home fans at the Santiago Bernabeu, where he was lauded as a legend of the European giants.
He now looks ready to begin the next chapter of his glittering career, with reports suggesting his has already decided where he will play next season.
According to Al-Ekhbariya, the president of 2022/23 Saudi Pro League champions Al Ittihad and his deputy were in the Spanish capital in recent days to officially sign Benzema in a record transfer from Real Madrid.
It is claimed he has penned a two-year contract with the club, which includes the option of an additional year.
The deal is also believed to be worth in the region of £172 million (R4.1 billion) a year for the striker, which could rival Cristiano Ronaldo's contract at rivals Al Nassr.
Los Blancos boss Carlo Ancelotti admitted during a heartfelt tribute on Sunday that the 2022 Ballon d'Or winner's decision to leave came as a surprise.
"He has been one of the best players in the world. One of the best footballers, not just one of the best forwards," the Italian tactician said.
"He has achieved legendary things here and will always be remembered at this club.
"We can't be happy that he's leaving, but we must respect his decision. He has earned the right to decide what he wants to do.
"It was a surprise for everyone. It was only this morning that we found out. He told us about his decision, and I told him I respected his decision and that I was grateful for all he'd done with me. We know he must have thought about it a lot.
"This club started a transition already a few years ago and that continues. We'll have to think about what to do now, and we know the squad will be competitive next season."
Read: Part 3 I Journeyman striker on featuring for 17 clubs - 'I had to move and face new challenges'
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments.
WATCH: