Bayer Leverkusen Denies Karim Benzema Transfer Rumors
Bayer Leverkusen have shut down talk of a blockbuster move for Karim Benzema, drawing a firm line under a rumour that briefly set the transfer market alight.
Whispers started when DZfoot journalist Ilyes Kaddouri claimed Leverkusen officials had made direct contact with the 38-year-old after his contract with Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal was mutually terminated. The story caught fire online. Screenshots flew around social media showing the former Real Madrid star suddenly following Leverkusen’s official Instagram account, and the speculation snowballed from there.
At the BayArena, though, the response was ice cold.
Asked by BILD about a possible swoop for the unattached 2022 Ballon d'Or winner, sporting director Simon Rolfes left no room for doubt. “Our squad is complete,” he said, a short, sharp verdict that effectively slammed the door on any Benzema arrival in the Bundesliga.
The stance is clear: Leverkusen believe they already have enough firepower.
Reports suggested Benzema had been in touch with Leverkusen players Lucas Vazquez and Moussa Diaby, sounding out the possibility of a move. Inside the club, however, the feeling is that the attacking hierarchy is set. Head coach Carles Martinez can lean on proven striker Patrik Schick and promising forward Christian Kofane, a blend of experience and upside that the staff trust.
And there is more to come. Victor Boniface, sidelined with a serious knee injury, is working his way back and is expected to add further punch to the front line once his rehabilitation is complete. A sentimental return to Lyon, floated earlier in the window, has already been dismissed, narrowing Benzema’s immediate options at the top level.
Upcoming Matches
Leverkusen, meanwhile, turn their attention to the pitch.
Martinez’s side open their Europa League campaign at home to Slovenian club Celje on Wednesday evening, a chance to set the tone in Europe in front of their own fans. Four days later, RB Leipzig arrive at the BayArena in a key Bundesliga clash that will test the depth Rolfes is so adamant they already possess.
After that, the league pauses for the international break. Competitive action for Leverkusen resumes on October 10 with an away trip to Mainz on matchday five — a stretch that will show whether the club were right to back their current strikers and walk away from the Benzema dream.
