French striker Karim Benzema looks set to become Real Madrid’s fourth big summer signing after the Spanish club agreed a £30million fee with his club Lyon. The deal could rise to £35million depending on the players performance.
It looked as though the 21 year old would stay in France for another year, after stating himself that he didn’t want to move on till after the World Cup. However Real Madrid have offered the youngster an incredible contract that has persuaded the player that his future lies at the Bernabeu.
A statement Lyon’s official club website said: “Lyon announces the agreement with Real Madrid of the transfer of international attacker Karim Benzema for a net minimum value of €35m.
“It will also be possible to add various no-claims bonuses related to athletic performances, allowing the deal to reach a maximum amount €41m.”
“A few days ago, Karim Benzema informed president Jean Michel Aulas of his wish to join Madrid, which has always been his preference after Lyon, quicker than it was initially considered.
“The player wished to seize the opportunity that was offered to him by Real, which was to be one of the major elements of the club’s new, ambitious policy built around some of the largest players in the world.
“Lyon accepted the decision of Karim Benzema and negotiated the conditions of a transfer which satisfy the various elements.
“The club wishes Karim the greatest success with Real Madrid.”
Benzema was also believed to have been a target for Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United, but Real Madrid have swooped for yet another world star in their bid to fill their team with another generation of ‘Galacticos’.
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