By Pete O’Rourke
Sky Sports understands Manchester City are weighing up a move for France and Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema.
City could be in the market for a new striker this summer with doubts surrounding the long-term futures of Edin Dzeko,
Carlos Tevez and Mario Balotelli.
Real hitman Benzema is thought to figure highly on City’s wanted list for striking reinforcements, with the 24-year-old catching the eye for club and country over the last 12 months.
Benzema enjoyed his best season to date with Real last term, scoring 32 goals in all competitions as Los Blancos won the Primera Liga title.
Real Madrid would be loathe to lose Benzema, with the Frenchman established as a key member of Jose Mourinho’s squad, but City are thought to be ready to test their resolve to keep hold of the former Lyon man.
Agent, Jonathan Hope, who is working on securing the UK mandate for Benzema, has revealed he has put forward the player as a possible arrival at the Etihad Stadium this summer.
Possible
“I have put Benzema forward after a talk with a very reliable and high source at Manchester City as a possible summer signing,” Hope told Sky Sports.
“We are working closely to secure the exclusive mandate to obtain the paperwork firstly after a serious interest from the champions.
“We spoke with Manchester United two years ago and it went nowhere, which I can see is perhaps a regret on their part.
“The player has stated himself he will not go to Manchester United, however, he has not ruled out a switch to join the champions. I will have a clearer picture soon after the Euros when I have time to sit with his representatives.
“But personally I can see the business being done and to be fair it will rock English football.
“I must stress this is at discussion stages. All does seem in good order but this is football and things change fast.”
