Karim Benzema said Manchester United were interested in his signature for a number of years and admitted he would be open to a move to the English Premier League, with arch-rivals Manchester City in pole position.
The Real Madrid striker, who enjoyed his best campaign last season scoring 31 goals in all competitions and helping Real Madrid to the La Liga title, however, admitted he is happy at Real for now.
"The rumours about my future are common, every summer it's the same that I will be going to this club and that club," Benzema told The Sun.
"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.
According to Sky Sports, however, Benzema's agent is holding talks with United's arch-rivals Manchester City. "I have put Benzema forward after a talk with a very reliable and high source at Manchester City as a possible summer signing," Benzema's UK agent Jonathan Hope said.
"We are working closely to secure the exclusive mandate to obtain the paperwork firstly after a serious interest from the champions. We spoke with Manchester United two years ago and it went nowhere, which I can see is perhaps a regret on their part.
"The player has stated himself he will not go to Manchester United, however, he has not ruled out a switch to join the champions. I will have a clearer picture soon after the Euros when I have time to sit with his representatives.
"But personally I can see the business being done and to be fair it will rock English football. I must stress, this is at discussion stages. All does seem in good order but this is football and things change fast."
United's number one striker target this season is Robert Lewandowski and according to Polish newspaper Onet, the Red Devils have tabled an official $23 million bid. However, it is understood any progress will be made only after Lewandowski returns from Euro 2012.
Asked about the United rumors, Lewandowski said: "I'm not going to concentrate on these issues. Euro 2012 is the priority. I'm totally focused on the national team."
Sir Alex Ferguson is also eyeing Dutch and PSV Eindhoven midfielder Kevin Strootman.
Meanwhile, Laurent Blanc is being lined up as Sir Alex Ferguson's successor, once the Scot decides to retire. Blanc, who played under Ferguson at Manchester United for two years, has been impressive since taking over from Raymond Domenech as France coach, after their disastrous World Cup campaign in 2010. The former United defender has led the Les Blues on a 21-match unbeaten run and turned France from a disjointed team into a cohesive unit. The Frenchman also guided Bordeaux to a league title in 2008-09.
