Football: Manchester United to attempt to sign Karim Benzema

According to the News of the World, Manchester United will attempt to sign Karim Benzema from Olympique Lyonnais in the summer - after they ditch Carlos Tevez, Goal.com says.

Benzema has long been on Sir Alex Ferguson's radar, and he was heavily linked with move to Old Trafford last summer. However, OL made it crystal clear that their prize youngster was not for sale.

But now the 21-year-old striker looks certain to leave the Stade Gerland at season's end, and United have joined the lenghtening queue for his signature.

Barcelona and Real Madrid are also thought to be keen on the French international, although the latter club's interest may fade as Tevez edges closer to the exit door at Old Trafford.

The Argentine forward has been deprived of first-team opportunities this term - much to bemusement of pundits and public alike, it must be said - and is becoming increasingly dissatisfied with his bit-part role.

Furthermore, the 24-year-old is approaching the end of his two-year loan spell, and United seem reluctant to cough up the €34 million required to make the deal permanent.

Thus, the Red Devils could let Tevez leave and instead splash out on Benzema, even though it may take upwards of €40 million to prise him away from Lyon.

Of course, these reports are purely speculatory, and only time will tell whether there is any truth in them whatsoever.