Former Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema has signed a deal to join Saudi Arabia’s Al Ittihad football club on a three-year deal, according to the club.

The announcement on Tuesday comes a day after the Gulf kingdom revealed plans to privatise its biggest football clubs in a bid to increase revenue and attract big-name players.

Without disclosing details of the deal or Benzema’s salary, the club said in a statement that Benzema had undergone a medical examination and completed the signing in Madrid on Monday.

“I am excited to experience a new football league in a different country,” Benzema was quoted as saying in the club statement.

“I have been fortunate to achieve amazing things in my career and achieve everything I can in Spain and Europe. It now feels the time is right for a new challenge and project,” the Ballon d’Or holder said.

The 35-year-old Frenchman completed the move from the Spanish league to the Saudi Pro League two days after playing his last game for Real Madrid.

He joins his former Real Madrid teammate Cristiano Ronaldo in the Saudi Pro League after the five-time world player of the year moved to Al Nassr from Manchester United following last year’s World Cup.