The first thing on Karim Benzema’s mind right now is having a good Euro with France, which begins with facing a shaky looking England team. But that’s not the only English thing on his mind, revealing he has been courted for quite some time by Manchester United.

It was a big season for the 24 year old Frenchman, who finally found a constant spot in the Real Madrid lineup, repaying Jose Mourinho for the confidence in him with 24 league goals and being a major part of the club’s first league title since 2008. After two years of being criticized for not being consistent enough, Benzema finally showed up every time, every match, showing how much he has developed as a player and a goal scorer.

He has recently suggested that he might not mind staying with the club for life. You’ve heard it before. After good seasons everyone never wants to leave. Bad seasons bring out bad thoughts, and those always come along at some point. Money and satisfaction from a new challenge in the way is also a popular reason for trying to find a new employer.

After Cristiano Ronaldo was sold to Real Madrid, there were plenty of speculations on how Manchester United might use the €94 million they received from Real to replace him. One of the hottest names on that shortlist was Lyon’s talented youngster, coming off 37 goals in two seasons. Alas, Real Madrid went Galacticos, and signed Benzema for €35 million.

Benzema revealed that the contact with Manchester United hasn’t ended, and they’ve been following him for the past three seasons at Real Madrid. There were times when Benzema did look like the odd man out in the Real front line, but he nudged Gonzalo Higuain out of the way as the season was nearing its end.

The rumours about my future are common, every summer it’s the same that I will be going to this club and that club. But I am very happy at Real Madrid and the thought about leaving has never crossed my mind. I know Manchester United have tried to sign me for the past three or four seasons. 

When I was at Lyon they and a number of other English clubs wanted me but could not agree terms with Lyon. Besides, I wanted to go to Spain and I can honestly say I have never regretted that decision. I’m still young and I have a contract at Madrid until 2015.

I still want to achieve things at the club. I have had a taste of success after winning the Spanish title but I want more. I would never say never about coming to England and, to be honest, I have no real preference in terms of teams. But that is a long way in the future, not something I would even consider at the moment.

Real Madrid always stands out as the premier destination for, well, everyone around the world. They always come running to Real with the first sign of an interest from the most successful club in the history of European football, not caring if they’ve fallen on hard times or not. Manchester United look less appealing for Real Madrid players, especially with the financial juggernaut of Manchester City just across the street.

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