Former Real Madrid star Karim Benzema has officially joined the Saudi Pro League after completing his lucrative move to newly crowned champions Al Lithiad, in Saudi Arabia on Monday.

Benzema who confirmed his decision to join the pro league last week officially signed a three-year deal with the champs worth a reported €200 million which run until 2026.

The Ballon d’Or winner now joins Cristiano Ronaldo as the latest high-profile recruitment to ply his trade in the country as the league pushes to raise its status as an attractive alternative to European or US-based football leagues.

Cristiano of course joined the league in December signing for Al Nassr in a massive €200 million per year deal following an acrimonious exit from former club Manchester United in October last year.

Al Nassr finished runners-up just behind Al Lithiad season.

Benzema’s acquisition could however be a precursor to the pending arrival of Lionel Messi in what could be the biggest deal in club history as the world cup winner weighs his options between a return to his beloved Barcelona and an eye-watering €400 million a year deal.

Either way, the notoriety of the League has significantly improved following Cristiano’s entrance and is set to expand rapidly with Benzema’s introduction as the possibility of a Messi vs Ronaldo 2.0, drives up interest in the competition.