Bayer Leverkusen Rule Out Move for Free-Agent Karim Benzema
Bayer Leverkusen have ruled out a move for Karim Benzema after speculation linked the free-agent forward with the BayArena club following the end of his Al-Hilal contract.
Key details
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Player linked | Karim Benzema, 38 |
| Leverkusen position | Rolfes: “Our squad is complete.” |
| Next match | Celje at home, Europa League, Wednesday |
| Bundesliga return after break | Mainz away on October 10 |
Reports had suggested that contact was made between Leverkusen officials and the former Real Madrid striker, whose availability prompted renewed transfer discussion. Interest grew further after Benzema followed Leverkusen’s official Instagram account.
The 2022 Ballon d’Or winner had also reportedly been in touch with Leverkusen players Lucas Vazquez and Moussa Diaby. However, the club do not believe there is room for another senior forward in Carles Martinez’s current group.
Patrik Schick remains the established experienced option in attack, while Christian Kofane is viewed as an emerging alternative. Victor Boniface is also expected to add to the centre-forward depth when he returns from rehabilitation on a serious knee injury.
A possible return to Lyon had already been dismissed last week, and Leverkusen’s firm response means Benzema will not be joining the Bundesliga side.
Martinez’s team start their Europa League programme at home to Slovenian opposition Celje on Wednesday evening. RB Leipzig visit the BayArena four days later in the Bundesliga, before the international break. Leverkusen then resume league action with a trip to Mainz on matchday five, scheduled for October 10.
