Al Hilal have made a perfect start to the 2026-27 Saudi Pro League season, yet the club's transfer activity is generating as much attention as the results on the pitch. Three wins from three, including a 3-0 victory at Al-Fayha on August 20 and a 4-2 opening-day win over Al-Faisaly, plus a clean-sheet cup win over Al-Raed, have put Simone Inzaghi's side third in the early standings with six points from two league matches. The momentum is real, but the squad is in flux.

The biggest off-field story is the future of Karim Benzema. Reports indicate the French striker has set conditions for his departure, with his contract buyout fee under discussion. Benzema has scored once this season and continues to face criticism over his output, despite being a regular starter. His situation is unresolved as the transfer window approaches its close.

Al Hilal have already confirmed the departure of Brazilian winger Malcom after three seasons, with the club releasing a brief official statement to confirm the contractual settlement. In his place, the club are pursuing several attacking options. Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins has completed a high-profile and controversial move to Riyadh, while reports link Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli and Ousmane Dembele to the club as Inzaghi looks to reinforce the attack. A trip to Al Khaleej on August 28 comes next, and with the window still open, the squad that faces them may look different again.