Houllier admits Benzema interest

(GSM) – Aston Villa manager Gérard Houllier admits he would be interested in signing Karim Benzema if the player wants to move to Villa Park.

Houllier said he would sign the Real Madrid striker ‘tomorrow’ as the former Liverpool manager sets his eyes on reinforcing his Villa squad in January.

The 25-year-old has failed to hold down a regular first-team role at the Spanish capital under José Mourinho, with Gonzalo Higuain impressing as a lone striker.

And Houllier has confirmed earlier reports that he would pounce at the possibility to lure Benzema to the English club, saying: “If Karim wants to come and play at Aston Villa, we would sign him tomorrow.”

Houllier is set to make former Arsenal midfielder Robert Pires his first signing at the club in the next two to three days.

However, the former Olympique Lyon boss has denied interest in Manchester United striker Michael Owen.