Karim Benzema joins Real

Madrid

after snubbing Manchester

United

Sir Alex Ferguson will have to continue his search for a new striker after France international Karim Benzema became Real Madrid's latest galactico.

By Telegraph staff
Published: 5:55PM BST 01 Jul 2009

Galactico: Karim Benzama turned his back on a move to Manchester United for a switch to Real Madrid Photo: GETTY IMAGES

Lyon announced on Wednesday the transfer of Benzema to Real Madrid for between 35 million and 41 million euros.

The deal was reached after Real agreed to up their offer from 32 million euros, Marca revealed. Radio Cadena Ser said Benzema will sign a six-year contract with the Spanish giants.

This is the fourth signing by Real under the new presidency of president Florentino Perez, after Brazilian midfielder Kaka, Portuguese winger Cristiano Ronaldo and Spanish defender Raul Albiol.

After Kaka was presented to fans at the Bernabeu stadium on Tuesday evening, Perez told Spanish radio that the next signing would be announced "today or tomorrow".

Real have been keen on Benzema since negotiations broke down with Valencia for Spanish international David Villa.

The former France and Real star Zinedine Zidane, who is now a senior advisor at the club had recommended Benzema to Perez, Spanish media said.

Benzema has played at the seven-time French champions since 2004, where he was top scorer in the French league in 2007 and 2008.

Lyon said last week that they wanted to keep him for another year.

Real also have their eye on another France international, Bayern Munich midfielder Franck Ribery.