Liverpool are reportedly considering a move for Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema this summer should the European champions sign Kylian Mbappe.

Speculation has surfaced suggesting that Los Blancos are closing in on a world-record £161m bid for the AS Monaco teenager, although Monaco themselves are reported to have denied the rumours.

Madrid are understood to be leading the race for the 18-year-old, though, and should he complete a move to the Bernabeu then it is likely to threaten Benzema's place in the starting lineup.

Don Balon reports that Liverpool are monitoring the situation and could swoop for the France international should he become available.

Benzema has been linked with a move to the Premier League with Arsenal in the past, and the Gunners are also said to hold a continued interest in the striker - although their purchase of Alexandre Lacazette is likely to see them stay out of the race.

Benzema has scored 180 goals in 365 appearances during his eight-year stay in the Spanish capital.