Lyon to fend off Benzema bids

January 6, 2009

The FA Cup 4th Round Draw has been completed, with the highlights Liverpool v Everton, while Man Utd have a home draw against Spurs.

Lyon coach Claude Puel insists that club's priority during the January transfer window is to retain striker Karim Benzema.

Benzema continues to be linked with a move away from Lyon despite signing a new contract in March, which ties him to Les Gones until 2013.

The France international last month admitted he hoped to play for Real Madrid one day, although Puel claims he will not be going anywhere for the time being.

"We have to keep Karim Benzema," he told Le Parisien. "It's essential and a priority for the future of the club.

"He needs another year to have the necessary skills to prosper elsewhere."

The FA Cup 4th Round Draw has been completed, with the highlights Liverpool v Everton, while Man Utd have a home draw against Spurs.