Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal is planning to end its association with 38-year-old striker Karim Benzema before the summer transfer window closes.

Operativ Media reports, citing Sky Sport Italia, that head coach Simone Inzaghi does not count on the French forward for the future, though the club has yet to formalize his departure.

One of the main complications is Benzema's salary, part of which is financed by Saudi state entities. Additionally, terminating the contract prematurely requires approval from the domestic league's governing body. The player himself is willing to leave as a free agent provided he receives the full payout for the final year of his contract, a condition acceptable to neither the club nor the league.

Nevertheless, Al-Hilal has reached a preliminary agreement with Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins. However, the Saudi side cannot submit an official bid to the English club until Benzema's future is resolved.

Benzema left Al-Ittihad last winter to join Al-Hilal, citing feeling "undervalued" under the newly offered terms. He has scored 10 goals and provided 5 assists in 14 appearances for his new club.