According to AS, Rafael Benitez has asked Florentino Perez to sign Mauro Icardi from Inter Milan.
The Argentine striker has been one of the hottest properties around Europe this summer and has been tracked by the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea and Real Madrid.
The Inter Milan striker seemed set to join Jose Mourinho at Chelsea after reports that the Portuguese has personally spoken to the player. However, Icardi put all rumours to bed when he signed a new deal with the Milan outfit.
Newly appointed Benitez is keen to upgrade on Chicharito and has identified Icardi as the perfect poaching option.
The former Liverpool manager confirmed that he plans to use Cristiano Ronaldo as the number nine next season. It seems the Spaniard is keen to use Benzema as a backup option to Ronaldo and the Frenchman is not happy with the role.
The former Lyon man has been linked with a move to the Premier League, with Manchester United and Arsenal being long term admirers. It is believed that Benzema will consider a move away unless he gets assurances that he will be a regular starter next season.
Furthermore, Icardi’ arrival at the Bernabeu will not only increase the competition for the striker’s spot, it will also underline Benitez’ willing to plan for life without Benzema.
All in all, Icardi’s move to Spain could prove to be an extremely profitable move for Manchester United, who hope to lure the world class forward as a result of this chain reaction.
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