Karim Benzema has officially completed his move to Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad following his departure from Real Madrid.

The former French international has signed a contract with the Saudi champions, which is believed to be for a initial period of two years, with an option for a further season.

Benzema became a free agent after opting out of the one-year extension clause in his Madrid contract. Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti expressed his respect for Benzema's decision while acknowledging the club's disappointment in seeing him leave.

The striker was presented with a lucrative wage offer from Al-Ittihad, who clinched the title last month, beating Al-Nassr, the team where Cristiano Ronaldo plays.

In addition to Benzema's move, there is also interest from Saudi Arabia in Lionel Messi, who has been offered a staggering sum of over £350m per year by Al-Hilal. While Barcelona is attempting to re-sign Messi, the Argentine superstar, who recently left Paris Saint-Germain, is yet to make a final decision on his future.

Messi's status as a tourism ambassador for Saudi Arabia resulted in a suspension from PSG after an unauthorized visit to the country.

Jorge Messi, Lionel's father, expressed his desire for his son to return to Barcelona in an interview on the Twitch channel Jijantes FC. However, both parties acknowledge that time is running out.

Barcelona President Joan Laporta and Messi Sr. are exploring possibilities within the club's financial limitations to find a resolution.

Benzema, the current Ballon d'Or holder, enjoyed an illustrious 14-year spell at Real Madrid, winning 25 major trophies during his tenure.

Though injuries hampered his appearances this season and prevented his participation in the World Cup in Qatar, he still started 33 matches in La Liga and the Champions League, scoring 23 goals, including one in his final appearance against Athletic Bilbao.

The 35-year-old will hold a farewell press conference in Madrid on Tuesday.