Bayer Leverkusen Denies Karim Benzema Transfer Rumors

Bayer Leverkusen have shut down talk of a blockbuster move for Karim Benzema after a brief burst of transfer hysteria sent social media into overdrive.

The noise started when DZfoot journalist Ilyes Kaddouri reported that Leverkusen officials had made direct contact with the 38-year-old, who is currently a free agent after mutually terminating his deal with Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal. The story snowballed once eagle-eyed fans noticed the former Real Madrid striker had started following Leverkusen’s official Instagram account.

For a few hours, the idea of the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner rocking up at the BayArena felt very real.

Then Simon Rolfes stepped in.

Cornered by BILD and asked outright whether Leverkusen were lining up a move for the veteran forward, the sporting director cut through the speculation with a single, blunt sentence: “Our squad is complete.” No caveats, no teasing. Just a firm shut door on any Benzema-to-Bundesliga fantasy.

Inside the club, the message matches the reality. Benzema is understood to have been in touch with Leverkusen pair Lucas Vazquez and Moussa Diaby, but those conversations have not shifted the hierarchy’s view of their attacking options. They believe they are already well covered.

Attacking Options

Head coach Carles Martinez can call on proven No. 9 Patrik Schick and promising forward Christian Kofane, a blend of experience and upside that the staff rate highly. That pool will deepen once Victor Boniface finishes his recovery from a serious knee injury and returns to full training, a boost that has been factored into all planning at the BayArena. A sentimental reunion with boyhood club Lyon has also been dismissed in recent days, narrowing Benzema’s immediate options.

Leverkusen, by contrast, have little time to dwell on what might have been. Their season is about to accelerate.

Upcoming Fixtures

Martinez’s side open their Europa League campaign at home to Slovenian outfit Celje on Wednesday night, a fixture that should test the depth Rolfes is so keen to defend. Four days later, RB Leipzig arrive in the Bundesliga for a heavyweight clash at the BayArena, the last domestic outing before the international break halts club football.

After that pause, Leverkusen return to action on October 10 with a trip to Mainz on matchday five. By then, the Benzema chatter may have faded completely — but if the goals dry up, the question will come roaring back: were they right to say their squad is already complete?