The football world is buzzing with transfer news—but this time, it's not about players. Marseille's sporting director, Medhi Benatia, is already confirmed to leave the club at the end of the season, and now a major Saudi Pro League side is circling.

Benatia's departure from the Stade Vélodrome has been a saga in itself. He initially left back in February, alongside head coach Roberto De Zerbi, who parted ways with OM by mutual consent. However, the Moroccan was convinced to return to see out the remainder of the Ligue 1 campaign. But the reprieve was short-lived. Club owner Frank McCourt soon confirmed that Benatia would be moving on once the season concludes, with Grégory Lorenzi—whose own exit from rivals Stade Brestois is already sealed—lined up as his replacement, according to L'Équipe.

With his future at Marseille set, Benatia is now on the hunt for a new challenge. And an intriguing opportunity may already be knocking. According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, Saudi Pro League giants Al-Ittihad have made an approach for the former Juventus defender. Benatia is reportedly one of the names on the Gulf club's shortlist to replace Ramon Planes as sporting director.

For Benatia, a move to the Middle East would mark a new chapter in a career that has already spanned top European clubs. For Al-Ittihad, securing a director with his pedigree could be a statement of intent as they continue to build a powerhouse roster. It's a developing story that adds another layer of intrigue to the ever-globalizing football landscape.