Manchester United FC

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United lose out on Benzema

02 Jul 2009 - 07:19:25

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Manchester United's hopes of signing Karim Benzema are over after the France striker agreed a six-year contract with Real Madrid.

Benzema, 21, was believed to have been earmarked by United boss Sir Alex Ferguson as a potential replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo.

But after losing the World and European player of the year to the Spanish giants in a record £80million transfer, United have now seen rising star Benzema also join the big-spending Madrid club.

Real have now spent almost £200million on four players so far this summer after signing Ronaldo, Brazil star Kaka, defender Raul Albiol and now Benzema.

They are believed to have paid an initial £30million to Lyon to sign one of the hottest prospects in European football.

"Real Madrid and Olympique Lyonnais have reached an agreement for the transfer of Karim Benzema," read a statement on the Spanish club's official website.

"The player will have his medical examination in the next few days, which will be followed by the signing of the contract with his new club.

"The 21-year old French international striker will play six seasons for Real Madrid."