Recently, a social media user on Instagram, sportidioset, claimed that French striker Karim Benzema had signed for Newcastle United. The post featured an image of Benzema holding a Newcastle United jersey, captioned “HERE WE GO.” The claimant also stated that Benzema would earn $7 million per season, with a contract running until 2028. This post garnered significant attention, earning 7,400 likes, 70 comments, and 76 shares as of September 23, 2026.
To verify the claim, DUBAWA investigated Benzema's current club status. On August 31, 2026, Al Hilal officially announced that it had mutually agreed to terminate Benzema's contract, making him a free agent. However, being a free agent does not necessarily mean he had signed for Newcastle. Prior to the Instagram post, a report on September 8, 2026, mentioned Newcastle as a potential destination for Benzema due to the club's ownership connection to Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF).
However, the report also stated that there was no suggestion that Newcastle were actively trying to sign Benzema. A Sport Witness report highlighted the difficulties of Benzema returning to Europe to play, citing his role as an ambassador for Saudi Arabia's football and his benefits from the PIF, which are worth tens of millions of euros per annum. These privileges are set to run until 2030, and Benzema would have to retire or sign for another Saudi Pro League club to maintain them.
Logically, moving to Europe would strip Benzema of these privileges. Nevertheless, there could be a possibility if he attempts to join Newcastle, as the PIF owns the English club. The PIF could potentially allow Benzema to continue promoting its interests while playing for the club it owns in Europe. However, this remains a mere possibility and not a confirmed arrangement.
Despite the speculation, Newcastle's official website continues to report on the club's first-team activities without announcing Benzema as a signing. Furthermore, neither the Premier League side nor Benzema has announced a contract. Additionally, no credible news outlet has confirmed the alleged move of Benzema to Newcastle.
As of the time of filing this report, Karim Benzema is currently without a club after leaving Al Hilal, according to credible reports. The claim that he had signed for Newcastle for $7 million per year until 2028 is, therefore, false. DUBAWA's investigation found no evidence to support the Instagram user's claim.
In conclusion, the claim made by sportidioset on Instagram about Karim Benzema signing for Newcastle United has been debunked as false. The investigation by DUBAWA highlights the importance of verifying information before sharing to avoid spreading misinformation.
Key points
- The claim that Karim Benzema signed for Newcastle United on a $7 million per season contract until 2028 is false.
- Karim Benzema is currently a free agent after leaving Al Hilal on August 31, 2026.
- Newcastle United and Benzema have not officially confirmed any contract or signing.
