Mbappé, the star forward, has told his French team he will not renew his contract next year. His decision could force the team to pursue a sale of his rights this summer.
The acquisition of Benzema is part of a billion-dollar project to lure global stars to Saudi Arabia’s top league and expand the kingdom’s sports profile.
A coordinated effort financed by the kingdom’s Public Investment Fund is offering huge paydays to some of the sport’s biggest stars if they join Saudi Arabia’s best teams.