Liverpool have launched a bid for Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema. The Daily Star Sunday says Benzema's future at the Bernabeu has been the subject of intense speculation in recent months, and according to reports, a host of Europe's top clubs are eager to acquire his services.

Premier League trio Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United are three of the teams reportedly interested in signing the French international, who joined Real in 2009.

Sources in Spain claim the Reds have submitted a bid in the region of £50m for the Real hit-man, who has scored 125 goals in 259 appearances for the Spanish giants.