Rio Ferdinand and Michael Owen have disclosed that Sir Alex Ferguson was determined to sign Karim Benzema for Manchester United in 2009, with Owen confirming he only joined the club because Benzema chose Real Madrid instead.
Speaking on BT Sport, Ferdinand recalled a Champions League last-16 tie against Lyon in February 2008, where Benzema scored. He said: 'That was the first time I played against him and Sir Alex Ferguson wanted to sign him. I remember after that game, Sir Alex Ferguson was talking to him in the tunnel after the game and some of their officials came and ushered him away.'
Ferguson's pursuit of Benzema ultimately failed as the Frenchman moved to Real Madrid for around £30m in 2009. This led Ferguson to turn his attention to Michael Owen, who was available on a free transfer. Owen revealed: 'I only went to United because he [Benzema] chose Madrid instead. I got a call off Sir Alex Ferguson and he was dead honest, he said: “We’re trying to sign Benzema, if we don’t get him, you can come as second choice.”'
Owen joined Manchester United in July 2009 and scored 17 goals for the club, winning a Premier League title. Benzema, meanwhile, became a Real Madrid legend, winning three La Liga titles, four Champions Leagues and scoring over 270 goals.
