Karim Benzema "happy in Madrid"

Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema has insisted that he is "happy in Madrid" amid reported interest from the Premier League.

The French international helped Los Blancos claim a Champions League and Copa del Rey double last term, but has been strongly linked with a move away from the Bernabeu as the capital outfit attempt to raise funds for Liverpool striker Luis Suarez.

However, the 26-year-old has played down suggestions that he could depart this summer.

"I'm happy in Madrid. This is my home. [There were difficult days] but I overcame them. At first, some mornings I said 'I have no desire' but I couldn't afford to give up," he told L'Equipe.

"I love working. In Madrid, we have meet for training between 10.30 and 11. I arrive at 9.30. After training I stay in the gym.

"I noticed this about Cristiano Ronaldo. At first I was like others, turning up at 10.30. I realised I should aim higher, like he does. Some people don't know the difference between a good game and a very good game. When I have a normal game, they say I'm no good."

Benzema scored 24 times for Madrid during the 2013-14 campaign.