Manchester United hope to complete a sensational loan swoop for Karim Benzema but face competition from his former clubs Real Madrid and Lyon.

Spanish outlet Marca say the legendary centre forward, 36, could be allowed to depart Saudi Pro League club Al-Ittihad this month after not showing up to a mid-season training camp on time.

It is thought Benzema's absence was not approved by head coach Marcelo Gallardo and the Frenchman will therefore be stopped from travelling with his team-mates to Dubai.

Fichajes suggest the fallout has opened the door for Benzema to depart the Middle East — at least temporarily — and there is predictably no shortage of interest. 

United's new football strategists INEOS want to bring in a striker capable of competing for a start alongside youngster Rasmus Hojlund and Benzema would fit the bill perfectly.

Having never played in the Premier League, the veteran may be tempted by a move to Old Trafford but would have to resist two more romantic options.

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti would reportedly jump at the chance to bring Benzema back to the Bernabeu as his Los Blancos side chase LaLiga and Champions League glory in the coming months.

Meanwhile, the marksman's boyhood club Lyon would love to bring him home to aid their climb up the Ligue 1 table following a disastrous start to the campaign.

In other news

Ajax have moved ahead of Juventus in the race to sign ex-Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson on loan from Al-Ettifaq, according to the Mirror.

The same publication also claim Manchester United are ready to open talks with Benfica ahead of a £100million summer move for their 19-year-old midfielder Joao Neves.

The Sun believe Crystal Palace are eyeing a £10m deal for Genk defender Daniel Munoz.