Real Madrid have confirmed five-time UEFA Champions League winner is leaving.

Benzema was with Real Madrid for 14 years after joining from Lyon in the French Ligue 1 in 2009.

“Real Madrid Football and our captain Karim Benzema have agreed to bring his brilliant and unforgettable time as a player at our club to a close,” read a statement from the club.

“Real Madrid would like to show our gratitude and affection to a player who is already one of our greatest legends.

“Karim’s career at Real Madrid has been a shining example of conduct and professionalism, and he has represented the values of our club. Karim has earned the right to decide his future.

“Madridistas and all the fans all over the world alike have enjoyed his magical and unique football, which has made him one of the great icons of our club and one of the great legends of world football.

“Real Madrid is and always will be his home, and we wish him and all his family all the best in this new stage of his life.”

Benzema will reportedly join Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League.