Al Hilal's decision to let Benzema go is complicated by the fact that he is being paid partly by the Saudi Football Federation. This means that not only the player and the club, but also the competition and the authorities, need to agree on his future. Benzema's departure is being made difficult by his own demands, which include receiving his full salary for the last year of his contract if he leaves the club on a free transfer.
Benzema's contract situation is a result of him joining Al Hilal on a free transfer in February. The 38-year-old Frenchman is now being seen as a key figure in the promotion of the Saudi Pro League, and the Ministry of Sport is involved in the decision-making process regarding his future.
Al Hilal is keen to replace Benzema with Ollie Watkins, the striker from Aston Villa, but they cannot make a move until Benzema has left the club.