The People says the French striker, 19, is seen as the next Thierry Henry and Ferguson has told the Manchester United moneymen to do whatever it takes to secure the deal.

United were at Lyon's Champions League clash with Rangers last week to iron out details and after Benzema scored twice in a man-of-the-match performance at Ibrox, the price rocketed.

Ferguson had hoped to land him in a player swap deal only with Louis Saha and Mikael Silvestre on the table, but after Wednesday's dazzling display he's had to add £6m.

A source close to United said: "United have had to offer more than they would have wanted for Benzema, but after his display the other night Ferguson is even more convinced he's grabbing a massive star."