Karim Benzema has commited his long-term future to Lyon after signing a contract extension with the French champions.
French starlet agrees deal with French champions
Karim Benzema has committed his long-term future to Lyon after signing a contract extension with the French champions.
The 20-year-old has emerged as one of Europe's brightest young talents over the past couple of years and his displays have not gone unnoticed elsewhere.
Manchester United and various other top clubs in Europe were known to be keeping a close eye on Benzema's contractual situation, but he has now elected to continue his footballing education in France
Benzema has agreed a deal which will keep him with the club until 30th June, 2013 with an optional year until 2014. His current deal ran until 2012.
"It is out of the question to leave now for another club. I am feeling good at OL, I want to continue to improve here," said Benzema.
"I live in Lyon. It is normal for me to stay and improve here rather than in Spain, Italy or England. I had no hesitation (in deciding to stay)."
Having scored 17 goals in 28 league games this term, his performances have earned lavish praise from compatriot and Uefa president Michel Platini.
"He (Benzema) scores more with his intelligence than his physical qualities and I like that," he said.
"People compare him to Ronaldo, I'd say he is more an old style centre-forward. He's Lyon's best player and came through the club's training programme - that should give many people something to think about."
