Lyon slam United interest

Club president Aulas unhappy with Benzema reports

Last updated: 28th February 2008

Lyon slam United interest

Benzema: In demand

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Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has accused Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson of attempting to unsettle Karim Benzema.

United claimed a 1-1 draw in the first leg of last week's UEFA Champions League last 16 encounter at the Stade Gerland.

Benzema was at the centre of attention during the clash, netting a brilliant opener and demonstrating his undoubted quality throughout the 90 minutes.

Rumours

The Red Devils are reportedly tracking the 20-year-old striker, with rumours suggesting that they may launch a bid in the summer.

And Aulas has hit out at Ferguson, claiming that United's reported interest heaped unnecessary pressure on Benzema prior to last week's fixture.

Aulas said in the Daily Mirror: "When Lyon, during the season, are interested in a player from another French club, everybody cries 'scandal'.

"But when, a few days before playing Manchester United, I read here and there that Ferguson is going to make an offer for Benzema, is that not destabilisation?"