Report: Manchester City want Karim Benzema

Manchester City are reportedly preparing a £38m move for Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema.

The former Premier League champions are expected to splash the cash this summer in a bid to regain the English league title, which they have relinquished to Chelsea this season.

A striker is said to be high on their wish-list and according to Manchester Evening News, Benzema has emerged as their leading target.

The 27-year-old has scored 133 goals in 279 games for Real Madrid since joining in the summer of 2009, but it is widely thought that he could be sold should a suitable offer arrive at the Bernabeu.

Benzema, who was linked with a move to the Premier League back in 2009, is currently on the sidelines with a knee problem.