Real Madrid contacted Lyon regarding the availability of Karim Benzema, according to the French club's director of communications Olivier Blanc.

Both Real and Manchester United are admirers of the France striker and a summer bid has been mooted, but it appears Benzema is keen to remain at Stade Gerland for another campaign as he looks to continue his development.

Blanc reiterated Lyon plan to keep hold of the 21-year-old star but admitted Real have approached the Ligue 1 side.

He said in Marca: "Benzema and Lyon have both confirmed their intentions to continue working together.

"The only new issue is that Real Madrid contacted us a few days ago to discover the club's position regarding Benzema.

"But we know the player wants to stay one more year at Lyon and we want to keep him."

Real’s formal interest in Benzema could signal their defeat in pursuit of Valencia striker David Villa, who is thought to favour a move to Barcelona.

It has been reported in Spain, however, that Liverpool may yet be in a position to sway Villa into move abroad, partially funding the move by selling Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid for around €30million.

Villa forms a formidable strike partnership with Liverpool’s Fernando Torres at international level.