Former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho will be taking over at Manchester United in the wake of Louis van Gaal's firing, and is expected to be confirmed as manager within the next 48 hours.
The Portuguese coach, according to the "?Independent, has already identified Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema as a primary target"?.
The Frenchman could be paired with former PSG striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, as multiple sources claim that the Swede is set for a reunion with Mourinho at United.
With team captain Wayne Rooney seemingly better suited to an attacking midfield role, Mourinho is looking to bolster his options up front, prompting him to consider Benzema, whom he worked with as Real Madrid coach.
The 28-year-old striker scored 79 goals in 150 appearances under the Portuguese at Madrid, but once revealed that Mourinho was too critical of his performances.
He claimed that it helped him out in the end, however.
"Mourinho criticised me,"? Benzema said. "But it was his way of making me react. At the start, it hurt me, but I am used to it now."?
One thing is for sure, Mourinho is a brilliant coach and a winner. As close as you could ever get in football to guaranteeing success.
United are prepared to back Mourinho on all transfers, yet there are a few caveats as it relates to Benzema. The player is currently negotiating a contract extension with Madrid, and could also face a court case, following charges of conspiracy and blackmail last year.
Benzema is being accused of trying to extort money from France teammate Mathieu Valbuena by means of a sex tape. He has so far denied the charges.